SAFA Officially Grants Kaizer Chiefs Permission to Sign Saleng Monnapule After Registration Deadline
In a move that has taken South African football by storm, the South African Football Association (SAFA) has officially granted Kaizer Chiefs special permission to secure the services of Monnapule Saleng, even though the traditional player registration window has already closed.
This unprecedented decision has sparked both excitement and controversy across the Premier Soccer League (PSL), as fans and analysts scramble to understand the implications of such a move — and what it could mean for the remainder of the season.
Kaizer Chiefs, currently in the middle of a crucial rebuilding phase, have been eyeing Saleng, the Orlando Pirates star winger, for several months.
Known for his explosive pace, precise crosses, and ability to shift the momentum of any match, Saleng has become one of the most talked-about talents in South African football.
His standout performances in the previous season made him a target for several clubs, both local and international.
However, the move to Chiefs has long been rumored — and now it’s finally happening.
According to sources close to SAFA, Kaizer Chiefs submitted a formal appeal for an exemption that would allow them to register Saleng after the official deadline had passed.
While such requests are rare, they are not without precedent.
SAFA’s decision, however, is believed to be rooted in “exceptional circumstances” — possibly related to injury concerns within the Chiefs squad or unanticipated contractual factors involving Saleng and Pirates.
In a statement released by SAFA, they confirmed the decision:
“After careful consideration of all documents, contractual agreements, and medical reports submitted by Kaizer Chiefs, SAFA has granted approval for the club to proceed with the registration of Monnapule Saleng, effective immediately.”
The statement continued, emphasizing that this decision was made in accordance with FIFA guidelines that allow for flexibility in special scenarios, particularly involving player welfare and club emergencies.
This move immediately set off a storm of reactions within the local football community.
Supporters of Kaizer Chiefs were thrilled by the announcement, taking to social media to celebrate what many consider to be a game-changing acquisition for the club.
“Saleng is the missing piece,” one Chiefs fan tweeted. “With him on the wing, we finally have a shot at the top four!”
Another said: “This is exactly what we needed. Kaizer Chiefs are back in business.”
However, not all reactions have been positive. Rival fans and some analysts have raised eyebrows over the timing and legitimacy of the decision, with Orlando Pirates fans feeling particularly stung by the departure of one of their brightest stars — especially to an arch-rival.
“What kind of registration flexibility is this?” a popular sports commentator questioned on national radio.
“This opens a can of worms. If Chiefs can do it, what’s stopping other teams from pushing for signings after the window closes?”
Others, however, pointed to Saleng’s personal situation as justification.
It’s been reported that the player was facing growing uncertainty at Pirates regarding his future, with limited game time and contract discussions stalling.
The opportunity to make a clean break and join a club that values him as a central figure may have been too good to pass up — and SAFA’s decision could be seen as a way to protect the player’s career trajectory.
Kaizer Chiefs’ management has remained tight-lipped on the exact details surrounding the transfer, but sources inside Naturena suggest that Saleng has already joined the team for training and is expected to debut within the next two fixtures.
His arrival could significantly impact Chiefs’ tactical approach, giving the team a dynamic option on the flank and adding creative firepower in the final third.
“This isn’t just a transfer — this is a statement,” one club official reportedly said.
Monnapule Saleng himself has yet to make an official statement, but those close to him have hinted that he’s excited for a fresh start and eager to prove himself in a new environment.
Fans will be watching closely to see how he adapts to his new surroundings, especially given the high expectations that come with wearing the Amakhosi badge.
Looking ahead, Kaizer Chiefs are now in a position to re-energize their campaign, with Saleng potentially being the spark that reignites their chase for silverware.
However, this special permission granted by SAFA will likely continue to be debated — especially by clubs that may have missed out on similar opportunities.
Whether this decision sets a new precedent or remains a one-time exception will depend largely on how it’s handled by SAFA, the PSL, and other governing bodies moving forward.
For now, though, one thing is clear: Kaizer Chiefs have pulled off a major coup, and South African football just got a lot more interesting.
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