Kaizer Chiefs Shake Up Midfield with Big Moves as Yusuf Maart Heads to Europe
Kaizer Chiefs have surprised fans with a major shift in their squad just as preseason kicks off.
Club captain Yusuf Maart, a key figure over the past three seasons, was missing from the team’s arrival in the Netherlands for their European preseason tour.
The reason behind his absence has now been confirmed: Maart is set to move to an Austrian club, marking a significant moment in both his career and the club’s midfield structure.
This unexpected departure comes alongside other notable changes, signaling a potential overhaul in Chiefs’ midfield ahead of what promises to be a demanding season.
Yusuf Maart’s journey with Kaizer Chiefs began three years ago when he joined from Sekhukhune United.
Since then, he has been a consistent performer and even captained the team, embodying leadership and reliability.
His recent contract renewal made his sudden transfer news all the more surprising.
Reports indicate that an unnamed Austrian club has secured Maart’s signature, with the player currently awaiting visa approval before making the move.
This development marks a bold step for Maart, who now seeks to test his abilities in European football.
Maart’s departure is just one piece of a broader midfield puzzle Chiefs appear to be reshaping.
The club also recently terminated the contract of Edson Castillo, another midfielder, suggesting that head coach Nassredine Nabi may be planning a comprehensive overhaul in this area.
The timing of these changes raises questions about how Chiefs will rebuild their midfield core and maintain competitive momentum.
To bolster their ranks amidst these departures, Chiefs have completed the signing of Specu Jovu from SuperSport United.
The 28-year-old midfielder brings a wealth of experience, having played across several PSL clubs including Orlando Pirates and SuperSport United.
Known for his energy, versatility, and defensive capabilities, Jovu is expected to slot into a defensive midfield role within Nabi’s tactical setup.
He has signed a three-year deal and is set to join the squad in the Netherlands once his paperwork is finalized.
Jovu’s arrival adds much-needed depth and experience to Chiefs’ midfield, providing a counterbalance to the loss of Maart and Castillo.
Over his career, Jovu has made over 200 top-flight appearances, contributing goals and assists while demonstrating consistency.
His ability to break up play and support both defense and attack makes him a valuable asset for the Glamour Boys as they prepare for a challenging season ahead.
Meanwhile, the South African football scene is witnessing other notable developments.
Orlando Pirates have officially released midfielder Ndlondlo after deciding not to renew his contract, which expired on June 30, 2025.
Ndlondlo made 65 appearances for Pirates, playing a vital role in their success, including winning two Nedbank Cup titles and three MTN8 trophies.
Now a free agent, he is open to offers from other clubs.
In a related story, Pirates’ new head coach Abdel Sam Oradu addressed the controversial signing of midfielder S Pom Boule.
Despite speculation, Oradu clarified that he was not involved in Boule’s acquisition, which surprised many given the player’s troubled past.
Oradu emphasized the importance of player responsibility and career management, expressing hope that Boule can turn things around and contribute positively to the team.
Back at Kaizer Chiefs, the combination of Maart’s exit, Castillo’s contract termination, and Jovu’s signing paints a picture of a club in transition.
Coach Nabi faces the challenge of integrating new players while maintaining team cohesion and performance levels.
The preseason tour in Europe, featuring five friendly matches against Dutch top-flight and second-tier teams, will be crucial for testing new formations and building chemistry.
Fans are already debating the implications of these moves.
Some see Maart’s move to Europe as a natural progression for a player seeking to elevate his career, while others worry about the impact on Chiefs’ midfield stability.
The arrival of Jovu is generally welcomed, given his experience and skill set, but questions remain about how quickly he can adapt and fill the void left by departing players.
The broader trend of South African players moving abroad continues to gain momentum, with Maart’s transfer underscoring the increasing opportunities for local talent in European leagues.
For Chiefs, balancing squad rebuilding with competitive ambitions will be a delicate task, especially as they juggle domestic league challenges and continental competitions like the CAF Confederation Cup.
In summary, Kaizer Chiefs are undergoing significant changes in their midfield, marked by the high-profile transfer of captain Yusuf Maart to Europe and the strategic signing of Specu Jovu.
These moves reflect a club intent on renewing its squad and aiming for success on multiple fronts.
As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on how these decisions translate into performances on the pitch, and whether Chiefs can reclaim their place among South Africa’s football elite.
Fans and analysts alike await the unfolding story with keen interest, eager to see if the Glamour Boys can turn this period of transition into a platform for future glory.
