Former Kaizer Chiefs Star Explodes Over ‘Lazy Defending’ as Club Moves Closer to Finally Signing Fawaaz Basadien

Tensions are rising around Naturena as a former Kaizer Chiefs player has publicly criticized the club’s current defenders, calling them out for what he claims is a lack of hunger, discipline, and basic defensive awareness — all while rumors intensify that Chiefs are finally closing in on long-term target Fawaaz Basadien

The outburst came during a radio sports talk show, where the unnamed former Amakhosi star didn’t hold back.

Clearly frustrated by what he described as “week after week of poor defensive displays,” the ex-player called on management to make bold changes at the back if the club is serious about regaining its glory days.

“We used to wear that jersey with pride,” he said.

“Now I watch defenders who don’t track runs, don’t communicate, and seem more interested in playing it safe than winning.

Where’s the fire? Where’s the fight?”

The criticism was not aimed at one individual, but rather the collective defensive unit.

He accused the backline of lacking leadership, organization, and accountability — three things that were once considered the cornerstone of Kaizer Chiefs’ football philosophy.

It didn’t take long for his comments to go viral.

Supporters were split in their reactions.

Some agreed wholeheartedly, saying the current defensive struggles have cost the team valuable points in both league and cup competitions.

Others defended the squad, arguing that injuries, inconsistency in coaching, and tactical confusion have made things more difficult than they appear on the surface.

Still, what everyone seems to agree on is that something needs to change.

And it now appears that change could be on the horizon.

Multiple sources close to the club suggest that Kaizer Chiefs are finally on the verge of securing the signature of Stellenbosch FC left-back Fawaaz Basadien — a player long admired by the club and its supporters.

The 27-year-old has been one of the standout defenders in the DStv Premiership this season, offering both solid defensive coverage and a potent attacking threat down the flank.

Known for his pace, work rate, and composure under pressure, Basadien has quietly become one of the most consistent full-backs in the league.

Chiefs have been linked with him for more than a year, but previous attempts to bring him to Naturena reportedly stalled due to valuation issues and contract complications.

Now, with transfer season heating up and pressure mounting on the current squad, insiders claim the deal is closer than ever.

Basadien’s arrival could be a game-changer.

Not only would he strengthen the defense, but his presence could also add much-needed balance to the squad, especially in matches where Chiefs struggle to transition quickly from defense to attack.

His ability to read the game, make overlapping runs, and deliver accurate crosses has caught the eye of analysts and scouts across the country.

If the signing is confirmed, it could send a powerful message — that Kaizer Chiefs are serious about rebuilding, about addressing their weak points, and about listening to both former players and frustrated fans.

Back to the former player’s rant — his comments may have been harsh, but some believe they were necessary.

He ended his radio interview by saying:
“This club means something to millions of people.

We can’t keep lowering our standards and pretending everything is okay.The badge is heavy.And if you can’t carry it, you shouldn’t wear it.”

That line, now quoted all over social media, has sparked passionate debates about what Kaizer Chiefs need in order to compete again at the highest level.

Supporters are calling on management to take accountability, make decisive moves, and restore the club’s former identity — one built on excellence, fight, and fearlessness.

For Basadien, if the deal goes through, the pressure will be immediate.

He’ll walk into a squad that’s under scrutiny, with fans expecting impact from day one.

But those who’ve followed his rise at Stellenbosch believe he’s got the character and quality to handle it.

His potential arrival also adds another layer of intrigue to Kaizer Chiefs’ upcoming fixtures.

With every defensive error now magnified, and with criticism from past legends hanging in the air, all eyes will be on how the current defenders respond — and whether a new face can shift the tone.

Kaizer Chiefs haven’t officially commented on either the criticism or the Basadien deal, but sources within the club suggest both matters are being taken seriously.

Management is said to be reviewing defensive performance stats over the past six months and preparing to make structural changes before the next transfer window closes.

As the pressure builds and expectations rise, one thing is certain — Kaizer Chiefs are at a crossroads.

The frustration of former players, the voice of the fans, and the potential signing of Fawaaz Basadien are all signs that change is not only wanted, but urgently needed.

And for a club with a legacy as rich as Amakhosi’s, staying still is simply not an option.