Kaizer Chiefs Told 2 Things Missing From Their Squad Ahead of New Season
- Former Kaizer Chiefs striker Kenny Niemach pointed to two critical voids in the current Glamour Boys squad
- Niemach invoked the legacy of Doctor Khumalo and Roger Feutmba to illustrate what type of player the Chiefs are missing
- The ex-Mamelodi Sundowns striker also urged supporters not to rush to judgment on new head coach Fernando da Cruz
Former Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns striker Kenny Niemach has identified the absence of a true leader and an X-factor player as the two most pressing gaps in Amakhosi's current squad, as the Soweto giants prepare for the 2026/27 season under new head coach Fernando da Cruz.
Source: Twitter
Kaizer Chiefs are hoping to have another good season after finishing third in the Betway Premiership last season.
Niemach: Kaizer Chiefs lack a driving force
Reflecting on his own playing career, Niemach believes the difference between a good team and a title-winning side often comes down to having influential leaders and match-winners.
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He argued that Kaizer Chiefs have historically relied on players capable of producing moments of brilliance, using Doctor Khumalo as an example. According to Niemach, the current squad lacks that standout individual who can consistently change the course of a game.
He also recalled the impact of his former Mamelodi Sundowns teammate Roger Feutmba, describing him as a player who inspired confidence throughout the dressing room and naturally carried the team during difficult moments. Niemach believes Chiefs are missing a figure with those same leadership qualities.
In his view, the club needs players who are prepared to shoulder responsibility, unite the squad and lead by example when the pressure is at its highest. He stressed that Da Cruz must identify individuals capable of driving the team forward, insisting that a shortage of leadership remains one of Kaizer Chiefs' biggest weaknesses.
Chiefs are captained by goalkeeper Brandon Petersen, with centre-backs Zitha Kwinika and Inacio Miguel serving as his deputies in the leadership structure.
Da Cruz is still building his squad
Since arriving at Naturena during the off-season, Da Cruz has bolstered his squad with the signings of centre-back Thabo Moloisane and goalkeeper Renaldo Leaner. While supporters continue to call for more additions, Niemach believes it is too soon to criticise the French coach's transfer strategy.
He explained that a new coach typically needs time to assess the squad, analyse previous performances and identify areas that require improvement before making recruitment decisions. According to Niemach, Da Cruz's cautious approach in the transfer market reflects a structured evaluation process rather than hesitation.
Looking ahead, Niemach believes Kaizer Chiefs should prioritise signing a winger and an attacking midfielder to suit the style of play Da Cruz is expected to introduce.
He noted that Chiefs have traditionally thrived as a possession-based side, relying on short passing and controlling the tempo of matches. To execute that philosophy effectively, Niemach stressed the importance of having technically gifted players capable of dominating the ball and dictating the flow of the game.
Da Cruz inherits a side that finished third in the Betway Premiership last season and will face continental scrutiny through participation in the CAF Confederation Cup, where Chiefs previously exited at the group stage.
Bafana star dumps Kaizer Chiefs
Briefly News also reported that a South African international has decided to leave Kaizer Chiefs for a new club in Europe after a tremendous performance in the just-concluded season.
The Bafana Bafana star is expected to be competing in the UEFA Champions League next season with his new club.
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Source: Briefly News
