Kaizer Chiefs have terminated the contract of Thabo Cele, allowing the highly-rated midfielder to walk away as a free agent.
Amakhosi announced the mutual separation from Cele after the Bafana Bafana midfielder fell out of favour since the arrival of new head coach Fernando Da Cruz ahead of the 2026/27 Betway Premiership season.
The former SA junior international is heading out the exit door at the Glamour after spending a season and a half with the club. Cele signed with Chiefs in the January 2025 transfer window and established himself as one of the outstanding players at the Naturena-based side.
In his first few months at Chiefs, Cele helped the Soweto giants win the 2025 Nedbank Cup under the then-head coach Nasreddine Nabi, who ended the club’s long-standing decade-long trophy drought.
In the previous season, Cele battled persistent injuries which limited his game-time as players such as Sibongiseni Mthethwa, Lebohang Maboe and Siphesihle Ndlovu featured regularly in the starting line-up.
The 29-year-old featured in 36 matches across all competitions at Chiefs before his spell came to an end in the current transfer window.
CHIEFS ANNOUNCE THABO CELE’S DEPARTURE
The Phefeni outfit announced the departure of Cele on Monday, allowing the KZN-born midfielder to move on and search for other opportunities elsewhere.
“Kaizer Chiefs have terminated Thabo Cele’s contract by mutual agreement, following constructive discussions between both parties. The decision will allow Cele to pursue new opportunities while Amakhosi continue to reshape their squad for the 2026/27 season,” the club said.
“The KwaMashu-born midfielder joined the Glamour Boys in January 2025, bringing international experience from his time in Europe and with the South African national team, and made his debut in the Soweto Derby the following month.
“During his 18 months with Chiefs, he made a total of 36 appearances in domestic and CAF competitions. He also lifted the Nedbank Cup with the club, four months after his arrival.
“We thank “Induna Yendawo” for his commitment during his time at Kaizer Chiefs and wish him the very best in his future career.”
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