Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira
BULAWAYO Chiefs are set to begin their journey in the Zifa Southern Region Division One with a host of major changes to their squad.
Chiefs are entering a new era following their relegation from the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League last year. In a bold move to rebuild and refocus, the club has released 17 players as part of their restructuring efforts.
Key players including Lucky Ndlela, Reason Sibanda, Migoz Svinurayi and Mduduzi Maseko are among those who have been let go, as Chiefs aim to make a fresh start.
Only nine players from the previous season’s squad have been retained ahead of the new campaign.
The released players include: Sibusiso Ndlovu, Cephas Musikavanhu, Mduduzi Maseko, Leroy Ndlovu, Benjamin Addotey, Tarirai Chikwende, Clement Makamba, Prosper Matutu (GK), Nkosilathi Ncube, Lucky Ndlela, Tadiwa Muchenje, Robert Kwaramba, Brian Chizondo, Prince Phiri (GK), Reason Sibanda, Thembelani Sibanda and Migoz Svinurayi.
As part of their efforts to bolster the squad and strengthen their push for promotion, Chiefs have been active in the transfer market, securing several key signings.
Leading the charge are experienced players who are set to make an immediate impact. Midfielder Kelvin Madzongwe joins the club from Zebra Revolution, while Malvin Mkolo and Arthur Musiyiwa arrive from Simba Bhora and Dynamos, respectively.
Both Mkolo and Musiyiwa, who previously struggled for regular game time, will be eager to prove their worth at Amakhosi Amahle.
Another key addition is goalkeeper Matripples Muleya, who joins from TelOne. Defenders Polite Mwenda and Gabriel Dlodlo also make the move to Bulawayo Chiefs from their previous clubs, further strengthening the defensive line.
In a promising development, the club has also signed forward Tatenda Ushe, who impressed last season by scoring 15 goals in Division One. Ushe’s arrival adds a much-needed attacking edge to the Chiefs’ offensive options.
The team has also bolstered their squad with the signing of Crispen Machisi from Arenel Movers.
With a new-look squad and renewed ambition, Bulawayo Chiefs are determined to rise from the challenges of relegation and secure their place back in the top-flight league.
