Double Deal Done: Fiston Mayele and Feisal Salum Officially Join Kaizer Chiefs – What This Means for the Club
Kaizer Chiefs have been actively reshaping their squad after a season that exposed several gaps, particularly in goal scoring and midfield dynamism.
The club’s pursuit of elite African talent has finally borne fruit with the confirmed signings of Fiston Mayele and Feisal Salum.
Fiston Mayele, the 30-year-old Congolese striker, played a pivotal role in Pyramids FC’s historic CAF Champions League victory.
Mayele’s performance was instrumental, scoring crucial goals during the semifinal clash against Orlando Pirates and netting in the final against Mamelodi Sundowns.
His striking prowess is well documented, with nine goals in 13 Champions League matches this season, bringing his total to an impressive 22 goals in 37 appearances in the competition.
Despite lucrative offers reportedly reaching $4 million per season, Mayele’s contract with Pyramids FC will end after the Egypt Cup final, and he has chosen to take on a new challenge with Kaizer Chiefs.
This move is expected to boost Chiefs’ attacking options significantly, addressing the club’s longstanding struggle to find a consistent goal scorer.
Alongside Mayele, Chiefs have also secured the services of Feisal Salum, a 27-year-old midfielder from Tanzania’s Osam FC.
Although Salum has not matched his previous season’s form this year, with his last goal recorded in December 2024, his experience and skill set add valuable depth to Chiefs’ midfield.
Osam FC currently sits third in the Tanzanian Premier League, and Salum’s arrival signals Chiefs’ commitment to strengthening their core.
While Chiefs have been interested in other attacking talents such as Mim Loi Sundowns’ Igodaro, recent reports indicate that the Nigerian striker may be moving to Russian side Baltika, leaving Chiefs to focus on their confirmed signings.
Igodaro, valued at approximately 28.5 million, scored five league goals last term while on loan at Omuzulu.
Chiefs’ management has also been scouting for defensive reinforcements, with journalist Sia Janna reporting that the club is eyeing a left-back from SuperSport United.
This indicates a comprehensive rebuilding effort beyond just the forward line.
The arrival of Mayele and Salum comes at a critical time for Kaizer Chiefs as they prepare for a challenging season competing both domestically and in the CAF Confederation Cup.
The club’s recent success in the Nedbank Cup and their qualification for continental competition have raised expectations among supporters.
Coach Nes Redey, who has openly expressed the need for a prolific striker since his appointment, will likely welcome Mayele’s goal-scoring capabilities.
Along with Salum’s midfield presence, these signings are expected to provide the balance Chiefs need to compete at the highest level.
Fans have already begun to celebrate the double acquisition, hopeful that these players will inject new energy and quality into the squad.
Mayele’s reputation as a clutch performer and Salum’s midfield versatility could prove decisive in tight matches.
On the flip side, the departure of Mayele from Pyramids FC marks the end of a successful chapter for the Egyptian club, which will now have to find ways to replace their top scorer.
Similarly, Osam FC will need to adjust without Salum’s contributions.
Kaizer Chiefs have also made some squad adjustments by releasing three players, including two academy stars, signaling a clear intent to refresh the team’s core and focus on immediate results.
The financial aspects of these deals highlight Chiefs’ willingness to invest heavily in talent.
Despite rumors of being priced out of other targets, the club’s ability to secure Mayele and Salum demonstrates strategic planning and resource allocation.
As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on how quickly Mayele and Salum adapt to their new environment and start delivering performances that justify their signings.
Their success will be crucial for Chiefs’ ambitions of reclaiming domestic glory and making a mark on the continental stage.
In summary, Kaizer Chiefs’ announcement of the double signing of Fiston Mayele and Feisal Salum marks a significant milestone in their rebuilding process.
These additions promise to strengthen key areas and elevate the team’s competitiveness for the upcoming season.
Will Mayele’s goal-scoring magic and Salum’s midfield control be the spark Chiefs need to dominate South African football again?
How will these signings impact the fierce rivalry with Orlando Pirates?
The 2025-2026 season is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory, with Kaizer Chiefs leading the charge.
Stay tuned for more updates as these new signings hit the pitch and the season unfolds.
