New Kaizer Chiefs signing Fiacre Ntwari has encountered an unexpected hurdle that is keeping him from joining his new teammates in Turkey. The 24-year-old Rwandan goalkeeper, who recently signed a five-year deal with the club after transferring from TS Galaxy, is currently stranded in South Africa due to visa issues.
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FarPost sources have revealed that Ntwari’s visa application process is taking longer than anticipated. Chiefs, who have been in Turkey for a fortnight as part of their preseason preparations, are eagerly awaiting Ntwari’s arrival. However, it’s estimated that the visa could be available only after 15 working days. Given this timeline, a trip to Turkey would not make logistical sense as the team is set to return to South Africa on Wednesday, July 24th.
interim Training Plans
Despite the delay, Ntwari is ready and raring to go. He has completed his medical exams and will be training with the development team in the interim. The young goalkeeper is expected to make his debut against Young Africans on July 28th in the Toyota Cup. Last season, Ntwari showcased his talents by recording an impressive 13 shutouts in 32 appearances for The Rockets, and he’s eager to bring that form to Kaizer Chiefs.
Kaizer Chiefs have faced significant challenges in solidifying their midfield since Njabulo Blom departed for MLS side St Louis City in December 2022. The club has experimented with various individuals and combinations, but none have provided the consistency needed. The departure of Siyethemba Sithebe has further exacerbated the situation, leaving a noticeable void at the base of the midfield.
Renewed Interest in Thabo Cele
To address this gap, Chiefs are looking to reignite their interest in Thabo Cele. The 27-year-old midfielder, currently playing in Russia, is reportedly ready to return to South Africa. Soccer-Laduma sources indicate that Chiefs have been monitoring Cele for almost three years, and recent talks with his representatives have been positive. Cele, who has five caps for the national team, could be the defensive midfield presence Chiefs need to stabilize their engine room.
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Additionally, there are indications that former midfield target Thulani Serero might join Siyethemba Sithebe at Richards Bay next season, though Chiefs’ focus remains firmly on securing Cele’s services during this transfer window.
As for Ntwari, fans and pundits alike are keen to see whether he can claim the number-one goalkeeper spot for Kaizer Chiefs. With the club’s goalkeeping situation in flux following the departure of veteran Itumeleng Khune, Ntwari’s performance and integration into the team will be closely watched.
