Richards Bay FC Strengthen Squad with 11 New Signings Ahead of 2025/26 Season
Richards Bay FC have made a strong statement ahead of the 2025/26 DStv Premiership season by securing the services of 11 new players as they look to bounce back from a challenging previous campaign and push for a more competitive showing.
Leading the club’s fresh acquisitions is seasoned Malawian striker Gabadinho Mhango, who joins the KwaZulu-Natal-based side after a stint with Marumo Gallants. Mhango, who previously turned out for AmaZulu and Orlando Pirates, netted five goals in 20 appearances last season and is expected to bring firepower and much-needed experience to the Natal Rich Boyz frontline.
The former Golden Boot contender’s arrival signals Richards Bay’s intent to avoid another relegation scrap and push for a mid-table finish or higher. Mhango’s sharp movement, eye for goal, and big-match temperament will be a valuable asset to the club’s attack.
Richards Bay have also welcomed former Golden Arrows duo Lindokuhle Mtshali and Thabani Zuke. Both players offer top-flight experience and are familiar with the demands of South African football at the highest level. Zuke, a versatile defender, brings physicality and leadership to the backline, while Mtshali adds energy and creativity to the midfield.
The club’s recruitment drive has also targeted depth and youth, with several other players coming in to reinforce key positions. These include Benson Mangolo, Halalisani Vilakazi, Ntokozo Nzama, and Sboniso Madonsela — all of whom are expected to compete for starting roles and add healthy competition within the squad.
Philani Khumalo, Lundi Mahala, Mbulelo Nombengula, and Olwethu Mbambo complete the list of arrivals, bolstering the team’s options across defence, midfield, and attack.
Full List of New Signings:
- Gabadinho Mhango
- Lindokuhle Mtshali
- Thabani Zuke
- Benson Mangolo
- Halalisani Vilakazi
- Ntokozo Nzama
- Sboniso Madonsela
- Philani Khumalo
- Lundi Mahala
- Mbulelo Nombengula
- Olwethu Mbambo
With pre-season preparations in full swing, head coach Vusumuzi Vilakazi will be aiming to integrate the new recruits quickly and build a cohesive unit capable of competing from the outset.
Richards Bay’s aggressive recruitment strategy underlines their ambition for the upcoming campaign, and supporters will be eager to see how the new-look squad performs when the 2025/26 DStv Premiership season gets underway.
