Kaizer Chiefs have sealed the signing of Rwanda international goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari from DStv Premiership side TS Galaxy.
Chiefs’ search for a goalkeeper took them across Africa, with near-misses including Burkina Faso’s Herve Koffi and Ivory Coast’s Issa Fofana.
After exploring options like Oussama Benbot of USM Alger, Chiefs ultimately secured the services of the 24-year-old.
Amakhosi secured the services of the Galaxy goalie following a transfer agreement with TS Galaxy on Friday.
Chiefs legendary goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune‘s omission from preseason has prompted the move.
Khune’s absence makes way for Ntwari to compete with existing goalkeepers Brandon Petersen, ful Bruce Bvuma and Bontle Molefe.
Chiefs’ new goalkeeper coach, Ilyes Mzoughi, endorsed the signing of the talented goalie.
Mzoughi, who had scouted Ntwari prior to his arrival at Chiefs, is said to be convinced Rwanda’s number one goalie will significantly bolster the team’s goalkeeping department.
WHY KAIZER CHIEFS OPTED FOR FIACRE NTWARI?
Indications are that Chiefs were drawn to Ntwari due to his age, potential for growth and familiarity with the DStv Premiership.
His experience as an international player, having represented Rwanda since the age of 17, further solidified his appeal.
Ntwari’s adept ball-playing skills and potential to develop into a top-tier goalkeeper were key factors in Chiefs’ decision.
His journey to professional football began in Rwanda. He played for various clubs, including Intare FC, Marines FC and AS Kigali. His consistent performances earned him a call-up to the Rwandan national team in 2017.
Ntwari’s move to Chiefs marks a significant milestone in his career. It offers him the opportunity to compete at a higher level and showcase his talent on a bigger stage.
He is expected to join his new teammates in Istanbul early next week. With his agility, reflexes and ball-playing ability, Ntwari could become a valuable asset for Amakhosi.
His heroics in the Carling Knockout Cup saw him save a penalty, guiding TS Galaxy to the quarter-finals. He joined The Rockets at the start of the 2023/24 DStv Premiership season.
Ntwari featured in 32 matches across all competitions for TS Galaxy last season. The Amavubi star conceded 29 goals while securing 13 clean sheets.
He becomes the second signing at Chiefs, with Orlando Pirates left-back Bongani Sam making the switch to Naturena.
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