Kaizer Chiefs have made a bold statement ahead of the upcoming season by reportedly signing two outgoing Orlando Pirates players.
The club is clearly aiming to both strengthen its squad and weaken that of its archrivals.
By targeting high-profile players who recently left Orlando Pirates, Kaizer Chiefs have signed two former Orlando Pirates stars, including Thabiso Monyane and Paseka Mako.
This move marks a strategic shift in recruitment as Amakhosi look to reclaim dominance in South African football.
Thabiso Monyane Set to Join Kaizer Chiefs
According to reports from SABC Sport, Thabiso Monyane is set to become the latest addition to the Kaizer Chiefs roster.
The 25-year-old right-back has parted ways with Orlando Pirates following the expiry of his contract.
Monyane, a product of Pirates’ development structures, has now chosen to begin a new chapter in his career with the Glamour Boys.
Sources close to the situation confirmed that a deal has already been agreed upon between Monyane and Kaizer Chiefs.
This transfer not only boosts Chiefs’ defensive options but also allows the club to gain an edge over their Soweto rivals.
Paseka Mako Agrees to Join Chiefs After Cup Victory
Just days before the Monyane deal surfaced, another former Buccaneer was also linked with a move to Naturena.
Paseka Mako, a versatile left-back, reportedly agreed to join Kaizer Chiefs after helping Orlando Pirates secure the 2025 Nedbank Cup title.
Reports from KickOff state that Pirates were eager to extend Mako’s stay, but the player had already agreed to personal terms with Chiefs.
The switch from Mayfair to Naturena came shortly after the final in Durban, marking a major victory for Amakhosi’s recruitment strategy.
Mako’s addition brings valuable experience and depth to the Chiefs’ backline, especially given his proven record at the highest level.
Chiefs Target Depth and Strategic Advantage
The simultaneous signings of Monyane and Mako reflect a clear strategy by Chiefs to build depth and hurt their main rivals.
Bringing in two former Orlando Pirates stars in one window sends a strong message about the club’s ambition.
These moves are not just about acquiring talent.
They are about disrupting a rival’s plans and re-establishing dominance in local football.
With both players now expected to feature in key defensive roles, the pressure will be on current starters to maintain their spots.
Selection Headaches and Healthy Competition Ahead
The addition of Monyane and Mako will spark fierce competition within the Kaizer Chiefs squad.
Coaches will need to decide whether to immediately start the new arrivals or use them to push existing players to higher levels.
Monyane’s ability to play as a wing-back could see him challenge Reeve Frosler, while Mako may compete with Happy Mashiane for minutes on the left.
This internal competition can raise performance standards and create tactical flexibility heading into the new campaign.
What This Means for the Soweto Derby
The timing and nature of these signings add extra spice to the historic Soweto Derby.
When Kaizer Chiefs face Orlando Pirates next season, both Monyane and Mako could feature against their former teammates.
This development will no doubt raise emotions and anticipation among fans of both clubs.
It also adds a narrative layer that could make the clash one of the most watched fixtures of the season.
Chiefs Are Not Done Yet
While the signings of Monyane and Mako are significant, Kaizer Chiefs are not done with their transfer business.
More reinforcements are expected as the club continues its aggressive recruitment strategy.
The goal is clear — to compete at the highest level and bring silverware back to Naturena.
With the window still open, Amakhosi fans can expect more exciting news in the coming weeks.
Fans Share Mixed Reactions
The reactions to these signings have been mixed across the fanbase.
Some supporters are excited to see experienced players join the club, especially those who know what it takes to win trophies.
Others are skeptical about bringing in former rivals and want to see younger homegrown talent given more chances.
Nonetheless, the overall mood suggests optimism, especially as Kaizer Chiefs seek to end a trophy drought.
Will Monyane and Mako Be Starters?
One of the biggest questions now is which of these two will break into the starting lineup.
Will Thabiso Monyane become the preferred right-back, or will Paseka Mako get the nod on the left side of defense?
Or could both players force their way into the first team through preseason performances?
Only time will tell, but one thing is certain — the competition just got a lot tougher at Kaizer Chiefs.