Da Cruz Explains Khanyisa Mayo’s Injury Situation and Why Ngcobo Is Struggling for Game Time

While explaining why midfielder Nkosingiphile Ngcobo has not seen much playing time this season, Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando Da Cruz gave an update on Khanyisa Mayo’s fitness.

As rumours regarding their lack of playing time for the Amakhosi first team persist, the French coach addressed the players’ situations.

The Chiefs signed Mayo to bolster their offensive options, but he has struggled to make an impact this season due to health concerns.

The striker was not yet prepared to compete at the necessary level, according to Da Cruz, who stressed that he was working hard to recover.

Da Cruz stated that Mayo is putting in a lot of work to return, but that he is not physically prepared just yet.

Rather than a lack of faith in Mayo’s footballing abilities, the coach’s update implies that his absence is connected to his fitness.

But things are different for Ngcobo, better known as Mshini, whose few public appearances have led Chiefs fans to wonder why.

According to Da Cruz, the midfielder’s chances of seeing regular action have been diminished due to the high level of competition in his position.

Mfundo Vilakazi and Mduduzi Shabalala are reportedly vying for the same position in the attacking midfield, according to the coach.

In terms of Mshini’s position, he faces stiff competition from Mfundo Vilakazi and Mduduzi Shabalala. We need everyone on the pitch during the season, so he needs to stay motivated, Da Cruz said.

He seems to be implying that Ngcobo’s reported disciplinary issues or disagreements with the technical team are not the reason for his benching. Rather, he will have to fight for a spot on the team alongside other players.

Da Cruz told the midfielder to keep his motivation high and his work ethic consistent because the team will need him at every stage of the season.

Both reports give Chiefs fans different takes on what’s going on with their favourite players. Ngcobo must prove himself worthy of a spot in a competitive midfield department, all the while Mayo struggles to get back into playing shape.

As the 2026–27 season continues for Amakhosi, both players will be looking to make more significant contributions.

https://x.com/KickOffMagazine/status/2118616460318679528

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