Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando Da Cruz has confirmed that midfielder Thabo Cele does not feature in his plans for the upcoming season, following the player’s notable absence from Amakhosi’s preseason training camp in Spain.
Addressing the media on Friday morning at Naturena for the first time since his appointment ahead of the Toyota Cup, Da Cruz provided clarity on the squad’s dynamics and addressed ongoing transfer speculation surrounding key players.
Cele, who has been training independently while evaluating his options, was left off the plane to Europe as Da Cruz looks to refine his midfield options.
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“With Thabo Cele, there are a lot of players in his position, and so we prefer other profiles. At the moment, he is not in the plans,” Da Cruz explained directly.
In addition to Cele’s situation, the Chiefs mentor addressed the future of winger Glodly Lilepo, confirming that the club is actively entertaining offers for the player following reported interest from North African clubs.
“For Lilepo, he has a rare opportunity, and the management is open to discussions, so they are in discussions,” said Da Cruz.
With the Toyota Cup approaching, Da Cruz is making swift structural decisions to shape his squad, leaving both players’ futures at Naturena hanging in the balance as the transfer window progresses.
