Njabulo Blom’s future at his boyhood club Kaizer Chiefs hangs in the balance as the utility player battles to secure a permanent contract.
With his loan deal from MLS side St. Louis City SC nearing its end, the remaining matches of the season will be pivotal in determining his future at the club.
Blom, who rejoined Amakhosi on a one-year loan with an option to buy, has struggled to cement a starting position under coach Nasreddine Nabi. The 25-year-old, a product of Chiefs’ youth academy, returned with expectations of leadership and experience gained from his stint in the United States.
However, his performances have been inconsistent, leading to questions about his impact on the team.
“He was expected to lead the team with his experience and understanding of the environment,” a source close to the club revealed. “However, Blom has disappointed since his return from the MLS, struggling to knuckle down a starting place in Xoach Nabi’s team.”
Blom has featured in 10 starting lineups and made eight substitute appearances, in both right-back and defensive midfield roles. Yet, he has failed to replicate the form that earned him a move to the MLS in January 2023.
BLOM’S VERSATILITY COULD PROVE INVALUABLE AT CHIEFS
The club is reportedly unconvinced by his current performances and has placed the onus on Blom to elevate his game in the remaining fixtures. With Amakhosi currently occupying eighth position in the league and facing a crucial Nedbank Cup semifinal against Mamelodi Sundowns, Blom’s contributions are more critical than ever.
“The club is not convinced just as yet by his performances and will require him to step up in the remaining games of the season. He still has a chance to prove himself in the remaining games to earn a contract extension,” the source added.
Adding to the urgency is the fact that Blom’s contract with St. Louis City FC expires in December 2025, leaving him with only six months remaining by the end of the Betway Premiership season.
With Reeve Frosler sidelined due to injury, Nabi is keen to explore all available options at right-back. While Dillan Solomons has recently filled the position, Blom’s versatility could prove invaluable, particularly in the upcoming high-stakes Nedbank Cup clash against Sundowns.
The coming weeks will be decisive for the Bafana Bafana midfielder. ‘Stopper’ will be eager to seize the opportunity to demonstrate his value to Chiefs and secure his future at the club.
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