Kaizer Chiefs are officially underway with their European pre-season preparations after the first-team squad touched down in Spain for a crucial ten-day training camp in Alicante.
The Glamour Boys will be hoping for a strong pre-season camp under new head coach Fernando da Cruz. The Frenchman joined the club last month after Chiefs opted to part ways with their co-coaching duo of Khalil Ben Youssef and Cedric Kaze.
Last season, Kaizer Chiefs failed to win any silverware while while arch-rivals Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates dominated the domestic scene. In fact, it could be argued that the Buccaneers enjoyed their best season ever.
Everyone at Naturena knows that things have to improve quickly under the new coaching staff, making their Spanish adventure all the more important.
But while the main squad has already landed in Spain to begin the hard work, there are major whispers back home regarding who actually made it onto the airplane.
Three Kaizer Chiefs stars missing from travelling squad
According to the latest gossip, midfield maestro Thabo Cele has not travelled to Spain with the Glamour Boys. The 29-year-old KwaZulu-Natal born star’s future at Naturena hangs in the balance.
Despite featuring regularly for Kaizer Chiefs last season, SABC Sport has reported that the midfielder is on his way out at the club.
Furthermore, star attackers Glody Lilepo and Ashley du Preez have also not travelled with the squad to Spain, with their futures also hanging in the balance.
Amakhosi pre-season fixtures revealed
Fernando da Cruz’s side will play three friendly matches against top opposition. First, they face Scottish giants Rangers FC on 12 July.
Three days later, the Amakhosi take on Saudi Pro League side Al Kholood, before they conclude their trip with a match against Spanish LaLiga side Elche CF on 18 July.
Kaizer Chiefs officially begin their 2026/27 Betway Premiership campaign on 01 August 2026. The team travels to face newly promoted Kruger United FC at the Mbombela Stadium.
