The Kaizer Chiefs duo of Samkelo Zwane and Happy Mashiane completed their loan move to Betway Premiership side Siwelele FC before Monday’s transfer window deadline.
The two Amakhosi academy graduates, who have yet to see game time this season, were among a group of players Chiefs intended to loan out.
On Monday, the deadline day, 22 September, the two clubs finalised a loan deal that will see Zwane and Mashiane play for the newly acquired team for the remainder of the 2025/26 season. Siwelele, looking to strengthen their squad for the season, could benefit from the pair’s arrival.
Zwane is expected to bolster the team’s midfield options, though it remains to be seen where coach Lehlohonolo Seema will deploy him. Mashiane, on the other hand, will provide valuable versatility.
With their first-choice left back, Neo Rapoo, travelling to the FIFA Under-20 World Cup, Siwelele needed cover in that position. Mashiane’s arrival offers a solution, as he can play as a left back in addition to his natural position as an attacking winger. Siwelele also has Aphiwe Baliti as another option at left back.
SIWELELE SWITCH OFFERS CHIEFS DUO NEW LEASE OF LIFE
In the 2024/25 season, Zwane struggled for game time at Chiefs despite coach Nasreddine Nabi’s apparent fondness for him. The 23-year-old defensive midfielder made only 13 appearances in all competitions – seven as a starter and six from the bench. He will be hoping for more opportunities at his new club to prove himself.
Mashiane has also endured a difficult time under Nabi, making only three starts and six substitute appearances in all competitions last season. His situation worsened with the arrival of Nkanyiso Shinga and Paseka Mako. Even Bradley Cross, a natural centre-back, was ahead of him in the pecking order.
The loan move offers the 27-year-old, Mashiane, a fresh start to revive his career, which has been in a slump since he received a red card in the CAF Champions League final against Al Ahly in July 2021.
Meanwhile, Siwelele also secured the services of Zakhele Lepasa on a free transfer. The 28-year-old recently parted ways with Orlando Pirates. However, it remains unclear whether Kegan Johannes will stay on despite Siwelele announcing his loan transfer from Mamelodi Sundowns.
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