Mamelodi Sundowns have announced the signing of Thabo Cele, a few days after Kaizer Chiefs confirmed the midfielder’s departure.
As previously reported by FARPost, the 29-year-old arrives at Chloorkop as a free agent and becomes Sundowns’ sixth signing for the 2026/27 season. This comes after the Brazilians also roped in Antonio van Wyk, Cassius Mailula, Siyanda Ndlovu and Deano van Rooyen, while Katlego Ntsabeleng’s loan deal was switched into a permanent move.
“Mamelodi Sundowns are pleased to announce the signing of Thabo Cele. The Yellow Nation is ready for you,” Sundowns announced on Thursday, although they have remained tight-lipped on Cele’s contract length.
“Thabo Cele joins the yellow family. The Yellow Nation has a new face! Join us in welcoming Thabo Cele as the latest addition to Bafana Ba Style.”
A LIFELINE AND POINT TO PROVE FOR KAIZER CHIEFS REJECT THABO CELE
The shock move to Sundowns comes after an equally surprising move by Chiefs to release the KwaZulu-Natal-born midfielder. Amakhosi coach Fernando da Cruz did not include Cele in his plans.
That saw the star excluded from the squad that travelled to Spain for pre-season camp. Chiefs then announced Cele’s release earlier this week before he resurfaced at the Tshwane giants.
The move to Sundowns appears to be a lifeline for a player who appeared to be at a crossroads in his career. With Chiefs inconsistent so far this season, Cele would be keen to command a regular starting spot at Masandawana and show Amakhosi what they are missing.
His Amakhosi departure was a surprise: he arrived at Naturena in January 2025 and made 15 appearances in the second half of the 2024/25 season. He then featured in 21 matches across all competitions last term.
COMPETITION FOR CELE AT MAMELODI SUNDOWNS
After experiencing the pressure of representing Chiefs, Cele also boasts experience of playing in Portugal, Russia and Poland. He arrives at Sundowns as a direct replacement for the late Jayden Adams.
That could invite scrutiny on him to see if he can match Adams’ high competitive level. To do that, he will have to prove his mettle in Sundowns’ central midfield, which also has the likes of Teboho Mokoena, Marcelo Allende, Bathusi Aubaas, and the upcoming Gomolemo Kekana.
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