Kaizer Chiefs have concluded their pre-season tour of Spain under new head coach Fernando Da Cruz, and the reason behind rising goalkeeper Takalani Mazhamba’s absence has now been revealed.
Young goalkeeper Mazhamba was one of the notable absentees from the travelling squad. He remained in South Africa alongside several other high-profile figures, including Glody Lilepo, Thabo Cele, Ashley Du Preez, and Khanyisa Mayo, who is currently nursing an injury.
Lilepo, Cele, and Du Preez were excluded from the Amakhosi camp as they face uncertain futures at the club. Congolese winger Lilepo is set to depart the Glamour Boys for Libyan giants Al Ahly Benghazi after both clubs agreed to terms, as previously reported by FARPost.
On the other hand, a final decision on the next steps for Cele and Du Preez has yet to be reached. However, Da Cruz has already made it clear that Cele does not feature in his plans, while Lilepo is closing in on his departure.
VISA SNAG KEEPS TALAKANI MAZHAMBA OUT OF KAIZER CHIEFS PRE-SEASON TOUR
Regarding Mazhamba, FARPost understands the South African youth international missed out on the European trip due to visa delays. The 19-year-old was promoted to the first team from the club’s DStv Diski Challenge squad during the previous season. The talented shot-stopper made his official senior debut on the final day of the 2025/26 campaign against Chippa United.
Although Mazhamba remains central to Chiefs’ long-term plans, he was unable to obtain his visa in time to board the flight to Spain with the rest of his teammates earlier this month.
While he is regarded as an exciting prospect between the posts, he faces stiff competition for game time. The Naturena-based side currently has Brandon Petersen, Bruce Bvuma, Bontle Molefe, and newly signed Renaldo Leaner on their books.
Petersen is expected to retain his role as primary choice, while Bvuma, Leaner, Mazhamba, and Molefe battle for the second-choice spot.
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