Naturena: Mokwana’s Expected Arrival Puts Chiefs Attackers On Alert As Competition Heats Up

Kaizer Chiefs are preparing for a potentially significant attacking addition, with Bafana Bafana winger Elias Mokwana closing in on a return to South African football. However, while his expected arrival has generated excitement among supporters, it could also create a serious selection battle among players already fighting for opportunities at Naturena.

The 27-year-old is reportedly close to completing a move to Amakhosi after agreeing personal terms with the Soweto giants. According to reports published on Tuesday, the proposed transfer is at an advanced stage, with a medical examination and final contractual details still required before the deal can be formally completed.

Mokwana has been a free agent since September, following the termination of his contract with Tunisian club Espérance Sportive de Tunis. He previously spent the 2025/26 campaign on loan at Saudi Arabian side Al-Hazem.

His experience abroad, international exposure and ability to operate across different attacking positions make him an attractive option for head coach Fernando Da Cruz.

At Sekhukhune United, Mokwana established himself as one of the exciting attacking players in the Premier Soccer League. His performances earned him a move to Tunisia and opportunities with Bafana Bafana.

During his time at Espérance, he recorded seven goals and four assists in 38 appearances across competitions. He subsequently made 26 appearances for Al-Hazem, scoring once and providing three assists.

His potential return to the PSL could therefore provide Chiefs with additional pace, direct running and creativity in the final third.

However, the development could have consequences for several players currently competing for attacking positions.

Langelihle Phili is one of those who could face increased competition. The former Stellenbosch FC attacker arrived at Naturena with considerable expectations after an impressive campaign, and Mokwana's versatility could make the fight for wide attacking positions even more competitive.

Faiz Abrahams is another player whose situation could attract attention. Having joined Chiefs on a season-long loan from Stellenbosch, he will want to establish himself and convince the technical team that he deserves a long-term future at the club.

Pule Mmodi could also face a more demanding challenge for regular minutes in the attacking department. The experienced winger has previously featured in different roles, but Mokwana's possible arrival would give Da Cruz another option in wide areas.

Youngsters Asanele Velebayi, Wandile Duba and Mfundo Vilakazi may also need to work harder to maintain their involvement, depending on the coach's preferred formation and selection decisions.

Nevertheless, competition should not automatically be viewed as bad news. A stronger attacking department could encourage players to raise their performances while giving the technical team more tactical flexibility.

Former Chiefs defender Tsepo Masilela has also welcomed the prospect of Mokwana joining Amakhosi, although he believes the club needs additional quality in its attacking department to compete with rivals such as Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns.

For Da Cruz, the challenge will be finding the right balance between established players, emerging talent and new arrivals.

Mokwana's anticipated arrival could strengthen Chiefs, but it also sends a clear message to the existing attackers: regular places must be earned through consistent performances.

At Naturena, the competition for attacking positions could soon become one of the biggest stories surrounding Amakhosi's campaign.

Source:

https://x.com/KickOffMagazine/status/2117640521732571215