After a nine-year trophy drought and persistent on-field underperformance, Soweto giants Kaizer Chiefs remain in the spotlight. This intense scrutiny has only intensified in recent seasons, particularly following the arrival of no fewer than 10 new players at the beginning of the current campaign, all brought in with the aim of restoring the club's former glory.
Soccer Laduma takes a look at whether Amakhosi's new signings have been successful or not, considering we are now into the last third of the PSL campaign.
While some of these signings have flourished and garnered praise, others haven't quite delivered. We take a closer look at each of their performances thus far:
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Given Msimango: After a breakout season with TS Galaxy, which saw him named Defender of the Season and earn call-ups to the Bafana Bafana squad, Msimango was promptly acquired by Amakhosi. He endured a challenging initial period at Naturena but has become a regular under coach Cavin Johnson, making 24 appearances in a team that has at least succeeded in producing many clean sheets.
Thatayaone Ditlhokwe: Signed on a pre-contract from SuperSport United last January, Ditlhokwe initially featured regularly under coach Molefi Ntseki. However, injuries and suspensions had seen him fall down the pecking order, with his last appearance coming in the November Soweto derby against Orlando Pirates. The highly-rated defender is expected to have recovered and will hope to get back into the team soon.
Mduduzi Mdantsane: Another pre-season arrival, Mdantsane adapted quickly. However, recent off-field issues threatened his progress. He has, however, returned to the matchday squad and featured in the last three matches against Pirates, Cape Town City, and Stellenbosch FC, although he remains scoreless in his 14 appearances in all competitions, having created one assist.
Edson Castillo: Arguably Chiefs' most successful signing this season. Despite initial doubts surrounding his acquisition, Castillo has become a vital cog in central midfield, contributing crucial goals as well. His impressive performances have earned him a call-up to the Venezuelan national team and attracted interest from clubs abroad. He has netted five times in 24 overall outings.
Ranga Chivaviro: Amakhosi secured Chivaviro's signature ahead of several local and international clubs following his exploits with Marumo Gallants FC in the CAF Confederation Cup. However, he has struggled to adapt, scoring only twice in 17 appearances thus far.
Tebogo Potsane: A surprise addition just days into the new season, Potsane initially thrived under coach Ntseki, showcasing his energy and skill. Unfortunately, injuries hampered his progress, and he has since fallen out of favor under interim coach Johnson. He has managed just 11 appearances in all competitions and is yet to find the net but has created two assists.
Jasond Gonzalez: The Colombian arrived with much anticipation but has encountered significant challenges. He has primarily featured as a substitute, has been underwhelming and remains scoreless.
Sibongiseni Mthethwa: Acquired in mid-September from Stellenbosch FC, Mthethwa initially filled the holding midfield role effectively. However, he has struggled for consistency, failing to solidify his position with Yusuf Maart and Castillo often preferred. He has made 22 appearances across all competitions.
Luke Fleurs: Initially brought in for assessment after his release from SuperSport United at the end of last season, Fleurs was eventually signed in October and struggled to break into the team. Fleurs tragically passed away in a hijacking on Wednesday.
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