Kaizer Chiefs, one of South Africa’s most iconic football clubs, is once again under pressure—this time not just from fans, but also from analysts and former players who are calling for a serious change in the club’s transfer policy. The Glamour Boys have been urged to move away from signing mostly free agents and instead focus on building a stronger, more strategic player recruitment structure.
The criticism comes in the wake of yet another disappointing pre-season performance, which has sparked debate about the club’s overall planning and long-term vision. Many believe that Chiefs’ reliance on free transfers—players whose contracts have expired with other clubs—is doing more harm than good. While signing free agents is not unusual in football, consistently doing so without a clear plan can lead to an unbalanced squad lacking in both youth and quality.
Experts argue that the club’s current transfer approach appears short-term and reactionary, rather than proactive and developmental. Without paying transfer fees, Chiefs are often competing for players who are either past their peak or not in high demand elsewhere. This, critics say, has contributed to a lack of energy, ambition, and tactical flexibility within the squad.
Former players and football pundits have weighed in, warning that unless the club modernises its recruitment process, it risks falling further behind its domestic rivals like Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates, who have both invested heavily in scouting, youth development, and structured transfers. “You cannot build a championship-winning team by picking up leftovers,” one former player said during a sports broadcast. “Chiefs need a proper scouting system and a clear football philosophy to guide who they bring in.”
Supporters have echoed similar sentiments on social media, voicing frustration at seeing the same cycle repeat itself season after season. Many believe the club is capable of attracting high-quality players, but only if it becomes more aggressive and forward-thinking in the market. Some have even pointed fingers at the club’s management, including Sporting Director Kaizer Motaung Jnr., urging them to revamp their strategy and invest in young, talented players who fit into a long-term vision.
In recent years, Chiefs have brought in several players without paying transfer fees, hoping to revive their careers at Naturena. However, few of these signings have lived up to expectations, and the club’s trophy drought has continued. This trend has led to questions about whether free agents are being signed based on availability rather than how they fit into the team’s playing style or tactical needs.
Going forward, analysts suggest the club should prioritise building a strong scouting department, investing in their youth academy, and targeting players who match their football identity. This shift in strategy, they argue, could help Kaizer Chiefs not only regain their competitive edge but also restore their reputation as one of Africa’s football powerhouses.
In short, fans and experts are calling for change—one that focuses on quality, planning, and long-term success, rather than quick fixes and bargain buys
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