Kaizer Chiefs have taken their first bite at the transfer market, sinking their teeth into a new chapter with the unveiling of three fresh signings they hope will breathe life into their 2025/26 campaign.
The Phefeni Glamour Boys, who wobbled and stumbled in every phase of the pitch last season, have moved with purpose to bring in left-back Nkanyiso Shinga, midfielder Ethan Chislett, and striker Flavio Silva—a trio they believe will anchor a revival.
It’s no secret that the season ahead must be different. It must be better. Amakhosi must avoid drifting into mid-table obscurity.
At the very least, a strong finish inside the top half is expected—demanded, even. And with the transfer window still open, few would be surprised if more names are added to this growing list of reinforcements.
Nasreddine Nabi returns for his second season at the helm—a captain now more familiar with the turbulent waters of Naturena.
Having steadied the ship with a much-needed Nedbank Cup triumph last season, the task ahead grows only tougher.
Improvement in the league is now non-negotiable, and with the CAF Confederation Cup also looming, the road ahead will demand clarity and results.
Here we will have a closer look at the three new arrivals and what each could offer as Chiefs prepare for the new campaign.
Nkanyiso Shinga
Amakhosi had one of the worst defensive records last season, and much of their issues stemmed from their inability to consistently prevent goals—often disrupting any momentum they tried to build.
The left-back position, like much of their defence, saw constant reshuffling. Bradley Cross was the initial trusted option, but his lack of both form and consistency led to changes. Bongani Sam, a former Orlando Pirates player, struggled with injuries, further complicating matters for Nabi.
Shinga, 25, is expected to offer much more going forward and could form a new-look left-side partnership with Paseka Mako, who has also been linked with a move to Naturena. Together, they could be crucial in restoring order and confidence at the back.
Flavio Silva
After showing early faith in Ranga Chivaviro last season, Chiefs failed to see the returns they hoped for, and the striker has since been let go.
Now, the arrival of Portuguese forward Flavio Silva, 29, signals a fresh start. A striker in the mould of Chivaviro, Silva carries a promise of a more polished finishing touch—something Amakhosi desperately lacked last season, when they managed only 25 goals in 28 league matches.
He netted 39 goals in 78 appearances in Indonesia’s Liga 1 and scored 13 times in 87 appearances in Portugal’s second division. While the level of competition may be questioned, Silva’s eye for goal and physical presence could prove a real asset.
Ethan Chislett
The 26-year-old attacking midfielder could be Chiefs’ most eye-catching signing of the window so far. Chislett brings with him valuable experience from England’s League One, having turned out for Port Vale and previously for AFC Wimbledon.
With Thabo Cele having shown strong early signs of settling in well at Naturena, Chislett could form an exciting new partnership in midfield. He’s expected to bring energy, vision, and the ability to unlock defences—all of which Amakhosi sorely missed last season.
