In what comes as a disappointment for Kaizer Chiefs fans, the club has announced its decision to terminate the contracts of two influential players, Darrel Matsheke and Lebogang Lesako, at the end of the season. The duo, who were once promising talents, have failed to impress while out on loan.
Darrel Matsheke, a midfielder who received a surprise promotion after just one season in the DSTV Diski Challenge, has struggled to find his footing since then. Despite being loaned out to several clubs, he has been unable to make a significant impact and solidify his role in any of them.
Matsheke’s loan spell at Moroka Swallows this season has been particularly disappointing, with only three starts in 30 games and limited opportunities as a substitute. As a result, Moroka Swallows is reportedly planning to release him back to Kaizer Chiefs.
However, it appears that Kaizer Chiefs is not keen on welcoming Matsheke back into the team and is looking to part ways with the midfielder. Although he still has a season left on his contract, there are indications that the club is considering terminating it. Despite the uncertainty surrounding his future, Matsheke is determined to return to Kaizer Chiefs and fight for his place in the starting eleven. Unfortunately, current head coach Arthur Zwane does not seem to be a fan of the versatile midfielder, who can play various positions, including right back and center back.
Lebogang Lesako, Matsheke’s teammate, is facing a similar fate. Both players were loaned out to Moroka Swallows in hopes of gaining valuable playing time, but they ended up falling down the pecking order at the club. Lesako, who made his Soweto Derby debut for Kaizer Chiefs, was loaned to Uthongathi FC last season. Although he showed some promise with over six assists, he failed to score a single goal for them. Lesako, like Matsheke, is yet to find the back of the net in professional football
Although neither player has been officially notified of the club’s intention to release them, reports suggest that they will be informed when they report for duty at Naturena, as their loan spells are set to conclude at the end of the season. Matsheke and Lesako will undoubtedly be hoping to follow in the footsteps of former Kaizer Chiefs players who excelled at other PSL clubs and eventually made a return to the club.
With Kaizer Chiefs looking to strengthen their squad, it is likely that more players’ futures will be under consideration, potentially leading to a squad overhaul at the end of the campaign. The club is determined to bounce back from this disappointing season and reclaim their position among the top teams in the league.
