George Lebese Urges Kaizer Chiefs to Add Experience to the Squad

George Lebese Urges Kaizer Chiefs to Add Experience to the Squad

Former Kaizer Chiefs winger George Lebese has expressed concern over the club’s over-reliance on young players, particularly rising star Mduduzi Shabalala. Lebese believes the 20-year-old midfielder has been exceptional this season under new coach Nasreddine Nabi but is carrying too much of the team’s weight on his shoulders due to a lack of experienced teammates.

Speaking to FARPost, Lebese, who played over 170 matches for the Glamour Boys, highlighted how a balanced mix of youth and experience was vital during his time at Naturena. “When I was young, we had experienced players like Josta Dladla to guide us. They taught us while easing the pressure off us. Now, it’s all youngsters, and the weight is too much for someone like Mdu [Shabalala] alone,” said Lebese.

Kaizer Chiefs have introduced seven new players this season, including Miguel Inacio, Rushwin Dortley, and Gaston Sirino, but the squad remains one of the youngest in the league. With several first-team players under 25, the team has struggled for consistency despite showing improvement under Nabi’s leadership. Chiefs currently sit 10 points behind log leaders Mamelodi Sundowns.

The departures of seasoned campaigners such as Sfiso Hlanti, Keagan Dolly, and Siyethemba Sithebe have left the squad without a core of experienced players to mentor the younger generation. Lebese believes this imbalance could hinder the team’s progress and suggests that signing a few seasoned players could significantly bolster the squad.

“Chiefs need experience to help the youngsters grow without the pressure of carrying the team. That way, talents like Shabalala can thrive without being overburdened,” he added.

With fans hopeful for a resurgence under Nabi, Lebese’s call for experience could serve as a blueprint for sustainable success at Naturena.