Kaizer Chiefs Close to Ending 10-Year Trophy Drought: Big Signings on the Horizon

Kaizer Chiefs are reportedly closer than ever to breaking their long-standing 10-year trophy drought, and fans across South Africa are beginning to believe that the glory days might soon return to Naturena.

After years of rebuilding, managerial changes, and inconsistent performances, the club now seems poised to mount a serious challenge for silverware—with a wave of big-name signings already in motion and more expected in the coming weeks.

The last time Kaizer Chiefs lifted a major trophy was back in the 2014–2015 season under then-coach Stuart Baxter.

Since then, the club has struggled to find its rhythm, often coming close but falling short in decisive moments.

While the fan base remained loyal, the frustration has been growing season after season as rivals like Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates continued to dominate the local scene.

However, the tide may finally be turning.

With management showing serious intent in the transfer market and the club’s technical team working tirelessly to reinforce key positions, there is a sense of urgency and ambition that hasn’t been seen in years.

Insiders have confirmed that the club is in advanced negotiations with several high-profile players, including international talents and proven local performers.

Among the most talked-about deals is the potential signing of Fiston Mayele, the Congolese striker who has been lighting up the Tanzanian Premier League with Young Africans SC.

Mayele’s pace, clinical finishing, and ability to perform in high-pressure matches have made him a top target not just for Kaizer Chiefs, but for several clubs across Africa.

Should Amakhosi succeed in bringing him to South Africa, it would mark one of the most significant attacking reinforcements the club has made in recent memory.

In addition to Mayele, the Chiefs are also said to be courting Mamelodi Sundowns’ midfield maestro Sphelele Mkhulise.

This potential signing has sent shockwaves through the Premier Soccer League (PSL) community, as the player is not only highly regarded but is also under contract with one of Chiefs’ fiercest rivals.

Still, sources close to the negotiations claim that progress is being made and that the player himself is open to a move if game time and his role in the team can be guaranteed.

There is also buzz about young, up-and-coming talents from the DStv Diski Challenge being promoted to the first team.

The club’s technical director has emphasized the importance of blending youth with experience to build a sustainable and competitive squad for both domestic and continental competitions.

This philosophy appears to be paying off already, as several academy graduates have impressed during training and pre-season friendlies.

The optimism doesn’t stop with signings.

Kaizer Chiefs have also made significant changes to their coaching and support staff.

The technical team now includes specialists in performance analysis, injury prevention, and sports psychology—areas that have often been neglected in South African football but are now proving essential in elite football environments.

These behind-the-scenes improvements may not make headlines, but they’re expected to yield tangible results on the pitch.

Off the field, the club is also experiencing a resurgence in commercial appeal.

Merchandise sales are up, social media engagement has skyrocketed, and ticket sales for the upcoming season are breaking records.

This surge in support reflects the fans’ renewed hope that this could be the year the drought finally ends.

It’s no secret that expectations are sky-high.

The pressure to deliver has never been greater, especially with the club’s leadership publicly declaring their intention to end the trophyless run.

But unlike in previous years where bold promises were made without the substance to back them, this time Kaizer Chiefs appear to be doing the hard work quietly and strategically.

A senior figure within the club, speaking anonymously, stated, “We know what’s at stake.

Our supporters have been patient for too long, and it’s time we give them something to celebrate.

Every decision we’re making right now is focused on one goal—bringing trophies back to Naturena.

In recent seasons, Chiefs have come close, including a second-place league finish and a heartbreaking CAF Champions League final loss.

But near-misses have only added to the hunger for success.

The difference now is the depth and quality of players being targeted, and the comprehensive support structure being implemented around the team.

Of course, football is unpredictable, and signings alone don’t guarantee success.

The new recruits will have to gel with the existing squad, adapt quickly, and deliver results.

Injuries, fatigue, and internal dynamics can still derail even the most promising seasons.

But what sets this upcoming campaign apart is the sense that Kaizer Chiefs are not just reacting—they are planning.

For the first time in a decade, it looks like a long-term strategy is in place.

Supporters can expect a busy few weeks ahead as transfer announcements are finalized and pre-season preparations intensify.

The mood around Naturena is shifting.

From the training ground to the boardroom to the stands, a quiet confidence is taking root.

And if all goes according to plan, the 2025 season may just be remembered as the one where Kaizer Chiefs rose from the ashes and reclaimed their place at the top of South African football.

Whether this marks the beginning of a new golden era or another false dawn remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Kaizer Chiefs are no longer waiting for success—they’re going after it with everything they’ve got.