Kaiser Chiefs have officially announced the departure of midfielder Sabel Khadebe following his return from a loan spell at Richard’s Bay.
The 25-year-old, once hailed as a promising playmaker, failed to secure regular game time and leaves the club as a free agent.
Meanwhile, Orlando Pirates have parted ways with midfielder Miguel Tim and witnessed the retirement of club captain Innocent Myella.
Adding to the drama, Orlando Pirates legend Benedict Vilakazi has publicly criticized Kaiser Chiefs coach Nazarin Nabi, sparking debate among fans and pundits alike.
Sabel Khadebe, affectionately known as Bibo, joined Kaiser Chiefs as a teenager through their youth development system.
Five years ago, he broke into the first team after impressing in the DSTV Diski Challenge, raising expectations of a bright future.
However, despite his early promise, Khadebe struggled to establish himself in the senior squad and was loaned to Richard’s Bay for the recent season.
Unfortunately, Khadebe did not make a single starting appearance during his loan, leading Chiefs to release him upon his return.
In a brief club statement, Kaiser Chiefs expressed gratitude for Khadebe’s time with the team and wished him success in his future endeavors.
This marks another change in the Chiefs’ squad as they continue to reshape their roster.
At Orlando Pirates, notable departures have also taken place. Midfielder Miguel Tim, 33, who arrived at Pirates three seasons ago after winning the NetBank Cup with Maruma Gallons, will leave the club as his contract expires.
Tim played a pivotal role during the Pirates’ resurgence under coach Jose Riviero, contributing to five domestic trophies.
Meanwhile, club captain Innocent Myella has retired from playing after a career spanning several clubs including Woodbank Spurs and Tund Royal Zulu.
A product of the Pirates’ youth system, Myella made 28 appearances this season and secured six domestic titles in his career.
The club has announced he will transition into a non-playing role within the organization.
Myella’s farewell was marked by heartfelt tributes from Pirates fans during his final match.
In a controversial twist, Orlando Pirates legend Benedict Vilakazi has publicly questioned the effectiveness of Kaiser Chiefs’ coach Nazarin Nabi.
Despite leading Chiefs to a NetBank Cup victory, ending a decade-long trophy drought, Nabi’s league performance has been underwhelming.
With just eight wins, eight draws, and 12 losses in 28 league matches, Nabi’s debut season has drawn criticism.
Vilakazi’s comments, made on the Mni Audio Africa YouTube channel, accused Nabi of taking the club “from better to worse” and called for his dismissal.
Vilakazi argued that a single cup win does not justify poor league form and claimed Nabi lacks the credentials to revive Chiefs’ fortunes long-term.
Chiefs fans and analysts have offered mixed reactions. Some defend Nabi, noting the challenges of rebuilding a team and emphasizing the need for more time to implement his vision.
Others agree with Vilakazi, highlighting missed opportunities and tactical shortcomings. The debate reflects wider uncertainties around Chiefs’ future direction after a season marked by inconsistency.
This wave of player departures and managerial scrutiny comes at a critical juncture for both Kaiser Chiefs and Orlando Pirates.
As two of South Africa’s most storied clubs, their strategies this offseason will be closely watched.
Chiefs must now look beyond their cup success to improve league results, while Pirates aim to integrate fresh talent following the loss of experienced players.
The upcoming transfer window and pre-season preparations will be pivotal.
Chiefs’ management faces pressure to back Nabi with quality signings or consider a coaching change, while Pirates must address gaps left by Tim and Myella’s exits.
