Kaizer Chiefs New Signing Lebohang Maboe Nears Debut After Fitness Progress

Kaizer Chiefs are set to receive a timely boost as new signing Lebohang Maboe edges closer to making his long-awaited debut for the club. The 29-year-old midfielder joined Amakhosi as a free agent in September but has yet to feature due to fitness concerns.

Chiefs have endured a turbulent period in recent weeks. The departure of head coach Nasreddine Nabi disrupted their early-season plans, while administrative issues around Asanele Velebayi and Luke Baartman delayed their registration. With both players now cleared to play, stability appears to be returning to Naturena.

Co-coaches Khalil Ben Youssef and Cedric Kaze have been managing the squad through this transition phase. The possible return of Maboe adds experience and depth to their midfield options ahead of a demanding fixture schedule.

Since his arrival, Maboe has been undergoing an intensive conditioning program to regain full match fitness. Sources indicate that his progress has been impressive, and he is now training regularly with the senior squad. The technical team is monitoring his readiness closely and could hand him his debut in the coming fixtures.

Maboe brings significant experience from his time at Mamelodi Sundowns and Maritzburg United. Known for his work rate and versatility, he can operate as an attacking midfielder or in a deeper role, offering Chiefs more tactical flexibility.

He is not the only player on the verge of making his first appearance for the club. Nigerian striker Etiosa Ighodaro, who also joined during the transfer window, has been training consistently and is nearing match readiness. His inclusion could provide much-needed firepower up front.

Chiefs will return to action this weekend in continental competition when they face AS Simba in the first leg of the CAF Confederation Cup second preliminary round in Lubumbashi. The match presents an opportunity for the technical team to assess squad depth and potentially introduce new faces.

For Amakhosi supporters, the sight of Maboe and Ighodaro nearing competitive action signals progress after a difficult start to the season. With the team regaining key players and internal issues stabilizing, Kaizer Chiefs will aim to build momentum both domestically and in Africa.