Chiefs reload with 12 new signings

BULAWAYO Chiefs have moved away from their long-held approach of developing players for bigger clubs and have instead gone into the market to assemble a squad they believe can compete strongly on their return to the Premiership.

For years, the Luveve side built their identity on identifying talent in the lower leagues, providing players with a platform before watching them leave once they matured. The model earned admiration but often left Chiefs rebuilding season after season.

This time, the focus is firmly on results.

Chiefs have brought in 12 new players ahead of the new season, signalling one of the club’s boldest recruitment drives as they seek to settle quickly back into the top flight.

Among the notable arrivals is experienced defender Elvis Moyo, a former Champions League campaigner with Dynamos and FC Platinum. He joins from Scottland after a difficult, injury-affected season and is expected to provide leadership in defence.

The club have also signed striker Brian Muza following the expiry of his contract at Chicken Inn. Known for his goal-scoring ability, he is expected to add a sharper edge to the attack.

Blessing Kagudu, Clive Rupiya and winger Denzel Mapuwa arrive from Green Fuel, while Busi Mathe joins from Bikita Minerals. Midfielder Maxwell Murimi has been recruited from Diportivo La Murambinda to bolster competition in central areas, alongside Melikhaya Ncube, who joins from Highlanders and is recognised for his ability to contribute goals from midfield.

Nkosilathi Ncube joins from Bulawayo City, while winger Claivert Tshuma leaves FC Platinum seeking to make an impact with his pace out wide. Chiefs have also added Dwayne Musona from Majesa Academy as they continue strengthening squad depth.

Chiefs’ spokesperson Benhilda Chauruka confirmed the new arrivals and said the club would soon unveil the full squad and technical team.

“These are the players that have joined us from other clubs. Our media and communications department is planning a press conference where the coach will officially announce the full squad and technical team,” she said.

Coach John Nyikadzino said preparations were moving in the right direction as the squad works on building combinations for the new campaign.

“Preparations are going on very well. We are working on new combinations and so far I can say we are on track,” he said.

The recruitment drive marks a significant shift in approach for Chiefs and raises expectations about what the club hopes to achieve on their Premiership return.

With a stronger and more experienced squad, Chiefs will be aiming to establish themselves and avoid being drawn into a survival fight.