“The squad is big” says Nabi

Mbabane – Kaizer Chiefs head coach Nasreddine Nabi says the team is exploring ways to reduce its nearly 40-player squad ahead of the September 22 transfer deadline.

Nabi told reporters yesterday that the technical staff and management, led by sporting director Kaizer Jnr, are considering options to sell or loan out players to give them more game time and help younger players gain experience in the Premier Soccer League.

Striker Tashreeq Morris, goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari, left back Happy Mashiane, and midfielder Samkelo Zwane are among those likely to move, either temporarily or permanently.

Chiefs are set to face Sekhukhune United on Tuesday at FNB Stadium in a Betway Premiership match. The winner will take the lead over Mamelodi Sundowns at the top of the table.

Nabi noted that new signing Khanyisa Mayo may not feature, as his registration is still pending. Injured newcomers Etiosa Ighodaro and Lebohang Maboe are also expected to miss the fixture.

“Some players joined without a proper pre-season or had injuries,” Nabi said. “We recruited young players to secure the club’s future, not to rush them into action. We have to integrate them carefully.”