Kabelo Nkgwesa of Kaizer Chiefs during the DStv Diski Challenge 2024/25 game between Cape Town City and Kaizer Chiefs at Malta Park in Cape Town on 10 November 2024
Ryan Wilkisky, Backpages
Kaizer Chiefs have officially bolstered their squad with the addition of highly-rated young defender Kabelo Nkgwesa, the player’s representatives have confirmed.
As exclusively revealed by the Siya crew last week, the 19-year-old left-back has been fast-tracked for promotion to the senior team to address the club’s ongoing defensive issues.
Read: Chiefs’ Latest Solutions For Left-Back Woes
Nkgwesa’s representatives from Mscsports Talent has now confirmed that the youngster has signed his first professional contract with Amakhosi and will immediately be integrated into the first team.
This move comes as Chiefs look to solidify their left-back position, which has been a problem area following the departure of Thatayaone Ditlhokwe to Al-Ittihad and the inconsistency in performances from their current options.
The young defender has been one of the standout performers for Chiefs’ DStv Diski Challenge side, earning praise for his solid defensive abilities and his capability to contribute in attack.
His rapid development has convinced Chiefs’ technical team that he is ready to step up and compete at the highest level.
Chiefs’ left-back position has been under scrutiny this season, with Bradley Cross struggling to cement his place and Happy Mashiane playing a limited role.
However, there has been improvement for coach Nasreddine Nabi’s side following the return of Edmilson Dove from injury.
Promoting Nkgwesa aligns with the club’s renewed focus on youth development, an approach that has been gaining momentum in recent years.
The move gives the promising left-back a platform to showcase his talent and gain invaluable experience at senior level.
With the remainder of the season ahead, Nkgwesa will now have the opportunity to fight for a place in the starting XI and provide Chiefs with the stability they desperately need on the left side of their defence.
Read: Crucial Last Few Months For Chivaviro At Chiefs!
Chiefs will be hoping that Nkgwesa’s promotion marks the beginning of a successful senior career, potentially solving their left-back woes for years to come.
“Congrats to Kabelo Nkgwesa who’s been rewarded with a Kaizer Chiefs contract after impressing management with his outstanding performances in the current DDC campaign. Well done Matlaba,” Mscsports Talent confirmed on their official X account.
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