Kaizer Chiefs Boosted by Return of Key Players After FIFA Break, Says Assistant Coach

 Kaizer Chiefs supporters have received a significant morale boost ahead of a critical phase in the Betway Premiership season, with assistant coach Khalil Ben Youssef confirming that up to six key players are set to return to action following the upcoming FIFA international break.

The Soweto giants, who have experienced an inconsistent start to their campaign, could see the timely reintegration of forward Etiosa Ighodaro, defenders Thabo Monyane, Paseka Mako, Given Msimango, and Rushwin Dortley. In a further development, highly-rated academy product Mfundo Velebayi is also expected to be cleared for first-team involvement once his registration formalities are completed.

“There are three or four players that we are waiting for to return: Monyane, Mako, Given, Dortley, and even Ighodaro. After these two weeks, Velebayi's paperwork will be ready,” Ben Youssef told iDiski Times.

The returns come at a pivotal moment for head coach Nasreddine Nabi, who has overseen three wins from seven league matches. The absence of several defensive regulars has been felt acutely, particularly during the team’s recent 2–1 defeat to log leaders Mamelodi Sundowns. The comeback of Monyane and Mako at fullback, alongside central defenders Msimango and Dortley—signed from Cape Town Spurs in the off-season—is expected to bring much-needed stability to the backline.

In attack, the potential return of Ighodaro offers a valuable alternative to current forwards Ranga Chivaviro and Mduduzi Shabalala. The Nigerian striker has been sidelined since August with a knee injury, while the imminent promotion of teenage winger Velebayi adds youthful creativity to the squad following his impressive displays in the DStv Diski Challenge.

With a packed schedule awaiting after the break, starting with an encounter against Cape Town City on October 19, the reintroduction of these six players could mark a turning point in the Amakhosi’s season. As the club looks to close the gap on Sundowns and fend off challenges from rivals such as Orlando Pirates and Stellenbosch FC, a fully stocked squad may provide the impetus needed to mount a sustained title challenge.