If you are a fan of Kaizer Chiefs FC, you have to be worried about five players of which will be free to sign any pre-season contracts with new clubs next year in January. This five players including Itumeleng Khune and Njabulo Blom, are left with less than 8 months in contract with Amakhosi.
1) ITUMELENG KHUNE
Khune is one of two standing Amakhosi legends.
He has revived his career since returning to Chiefs starting line-up against Stellenbosch FC in the quarter-finals of the MTN8 Cup.
At 35, he is still fit, focused and as passionate as ever! Our revitalized skipper is ready to play as long as his body will let him.
Form is what matters and right now Amakhosi’s number one is in fine form and getting better with each game. His current contract expires in June 2023, according to SoccerLaduma. However, he is expected to receive an extension.
2) ERICK MATHOHO
Mathoho is the other Amakhosi legend left standing in Zwane’s side. However, it appears his days at Naturena are numbered.
The Tower appears to have fallen as a result of Mathoho’s recent series of expensive mistakes. He appears to be a shadow of his former self and management agree. He has fallen while down the pecking order behind Zitha Kwinika, Njabulo Ngcobo and Siyabonga Ngezana. His contract expires in June next year. However, don’t be surprised to see him let go in the 2023 January transfer window.
3) KHAMA BILLIAT
This is another player who seems to be running out of time at Naturena. Billiat has failed to score this season while offering very little spark in attack. Dolly is back in form while Kgaogelo Sekgota has been Amakhosi’s best player this season.
Add Caleb-Bonfils Bimenyimana and Ashley Du Preez into the equation and you can see why Billiat will struggle getting into the starting line-up. His form from will determine if Chiefs management decide to let him go. Billiat has underperformed for a while now and he is one of the only players that is over 30 (32). He is also likely to go.
4) NJABULO BLOM
Blom’s contract situation is a very interesting one. There is no doubt that he is one of the most talented players in Zwane’s squad.
However, he is struggling to reach a deal for his services that he feels is fair. Blom wants increased wages while currently, Amakhosi do not want to meet his demands. Blom is certainly dedicated to Chiefs but the two parties are currently deadlocked. It will be interesting to see if Chiefs can keep Blom next season.
5) S’FISO HLANTI
Hlanti’s contract is also nearing its end. However, Amakhosi management have the option to extend his contract by one year.
Therefore, the ball is in their court, if he is in form and fit he will stay longer. Unfortunately, Hlanti has struggled with fitness issues lately although he recently returned to the starting line-up. The next few months will determine Hlanti’s future at Naturena.
