Kaizer Chiefs made a mistake by releasing Cele, says club legend

Former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Willard Katsanda believes Amakhosi made a mistake by releasing Thabo Cele.

The 28-year-old midfield maestro joined Chiefs in January 2025 but only spent 18 months at the club before he was let go a few weeks ago.

Mamelodi Sundowns were quick to pounce on Cele and Katsanda feels his former club lost a quality player.

“Personally, I thought he was brilliant for us. I liked his game a lot, to be honest. He is a top-quality midfielder, there is no doubt about that,” Katsande told FARPost.

Chiefs release Cele, Sundowns pounce

With Cele gone, Amakhosi signed Adolf Mtaswinga but the Tanzanian is yet to make his mark after struggling to adjust to South African football.

Katsande feels Chiefs had time to review their decision about Cele during pre-season.

“But football is like that. At the end of the season, the club has to sit down, review, and decide which direction they want to go.

“Once that decision is made, these things can happen,” he said.

Amakhosi have drawn four of their last games and only picked up seven from a possible 15 points. Their goalless draw against Golden Arrows sees them seven points behind log leaders Mamelodi Sundowns.

Cele’s departure at Chiefs could affect them in the coming weeks if a midfield player gets injured. Lebohang Maboe, who has been Amakhosi’s best player, was subbed off against Arrows this past weekend but the injury appear not be be serious.