Charles Esther
Kaizer Chiefs are undergoing a period of evaluation and transition as they prepare for the 2025–2026 season.
Two players under the spotlight are George Matlou and Mduduzi Shabalala.
Both were once seen as valuable assets, but their performances in recent months have left fans and analysts questioning their future with the club.
Matlou’s inclusion in the preseason squad heading to the Netherlands and Shabalala’s recent inconsistency have reignited the debate.
George Matlou Gets a Surprising Preseason Lifeline
George Matlou’s inclusion in the Kaizer Chiefs’ preseason tour to the Netherlands has raised eyebrows.
Despite limited game time during the 2024–2025 campaign, the coaching staff clearly sees potential.
His performances have mostly come from the bench, and he has rarely started consecutive games.
However, the upcoming tour offers him a chance to showcase his ability and earn a bigger role.
Matlou is a technically gifted midfielder with good vision and passing range.
But his lack of consistency and defensive discipline has prevented him from becoming a regular starter.
The club’s decision to take him to Europe signals that his journey at Naturena isn’t over yet.
If he delivers strong performances during the tour, he could fight his way back into the team’s long-term plans.
Mduduzi Shabalala Struggles to Maintain Momentum
Mduduzi Shabalala began the 2024–2025 season as one of Kaizer Chiefs’ most exciting young talents.
Often deployed in the number 10 role, he brought flair and creativity to the team’s attack.
He started the campaign with promise, producing a handful of goals and assists in the early rounds.
However, his impact has sharply declined in the second half of the season.
Shabalala finished with just four goals and one assist in 27 league matches.
His decision-making on the field has come under scrutiny, particularly in high-pressure games.
In a recent match against Orlando Pirates, he wasted a golden opportunity to seal the game.
Instead of making a simple pass, he lost possession, leading to a counterattack and equalizer.
Supporters and coaches alike have called for more maturity and composure from the 21-year-old.
If he wants to stay at the club beyond 2025, he must evolve into a more reliable playmaker.
The Road Ahead for Matlou and Shabalala
Kaizer Chiefs fans are hoping for a fresh and competitive squad next season.
To be part of that vision, Matlou and Shabalala must prove their value on and off the pitch.
The upcoming preseason tour will serve as a major test for both players.
New head coach Nasreddine Nabi is expected to make tough decisions based on performance and attitude.
While both players have the talent to succeed, it will take more than potential to secure their places.
They must work harder, play smarter, and deliver consistently if they want to be part of Chiefs’ future.
