Kaizer Chiefs have made a bold move to strengthen their defensive line by signing former Orlando Pirates duo Paseka Mako and Thabiso Monyane, intensifying the Soweto rivalry. The signings come as Chiefs aim to address vulnerabilities in their full-back positions following a challenging season marked by injuries and departures. With Reeve Frosler sidelined by injury and Thatayaone Ditlhokwe’s exit, the addition of Mako and Monyane signals a strategic overhaul under coach Nasreddine Nabi. However, these arrivals raise questions about the futures of Dillan Solomons, Edmilson Dove, and Frosler at Naturena.
Paseka Mako, whose contract with Orlando Pirates expired in June, has inked a three-year deal with Chiefs, effective July 1. Thabiso Monyane, also released by Pirates, joins as a versatile wingback to compete for a starting role. The duo’s arrival addresses Chiefs’ need for depth on both flanks, but it leaves the current squad members’ roles in flux.
Mozambican international Edmilson Dove faces an uncertain future as his contract nears its end this month. Chiefs exercised a one-year option last season, but the 30-year-old’s lackluster performance in 13 appearances during the 2024/25 season has cast doubt on his renewal. With Mako now occupying the left-back role, Chiefs plan to shift Bradley Cross to left center-back, alongside emerging options like Aden McCarthy and Rushwin Dortley. Dove, a former Cape Town City star, may struggle to secure a new deal unless he can prove his worth in the coming weeks.
Dillan Solomons stepped up in Frosler’s absence, featuring in 11 matches, including the Nedbank Cup final. However, his performances exposed limitations, and with Monyane’s arrival, Solomons faces increased competition at right-back. Signed in 2022 on a four-year deal, the Steenberg-born defender has one year left on his contract. While Nabi lacked alternatives last season, Monyane’s signing and Frosler’s return could relegate Solomons to a third-choice role. Chiefs are likely to retain him as a squad player to maintain depth.
At 27, Reeve Frosler remains Chiefs’ first-choice right-back despite a season disrupted by injury. He made 16 appearances in the Betway Premiership and contributed in the Nedbank Cup and Carling Knockout Cup before his setback. A contract extension signed in March ensures his stay for another season. Monyane’s arrival will challenge Frosler for the starting spot, but his experience and versatility give him the edge as Nabi’s preferred option.
The signings of Mako and Monyane reflect Chiefs’ ambition to rebuild a robust defense under Nabi’s guidance. With strategic shifts in the backline, including Cross’s potential move to center-back, the club is prioritizing flexibility and competition.
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