The Kaizer Chiefs, a prominent football club based in Soweto, have stirred considerable intrigue among fans and analysts alike by deciding to exclude star winger Glody Lilepo from their upcoming pre-season tour to Spain. Lilepo, a vital contributor to the Amakhosi's attacking prowess, now faces an uncertain future at the club as they gear up for the 2026/27 season. This decision has raised eyebrows, especially considering the Congolese international's recent return from an off-season break.
Lilepo's Omission Triggers Speculations
In a shocking development, Lilepo has been left behind while coach Fernando Da Cruz and his squad embark on a nine-day training camp in Europe. Following his recent rejoining of the team, this exclusion has immediately sparked questions regarding his standing within the club, particularly as reports suggest that the Chiefs are open to listening to offers for the talented winger. Although the club is not actively seeking to offload Lilepo, the increasing uncertainty surrounding his long-term future at Naturena has become a topic of discussion among fans and sports media.
Sources indicate that the Chiefs are willing to entertain offers before the closure of the European and domestic transfer windows, which adds a layer of urgency to the situation. As interest in the player grows, it appears that the Soweto giants might be positioned to profit significantly from any potential transfer.
Intense Interest from North African Clubs
Lilepo's impressive performances have not gone unnoticed, particularly among several North African clubs that are now circling for his signature. Heavyweights such as AS FAR from Morocco and Libya's Al Ahly Benghazi have reportedly shown keen interest, with the latter already submitting a formal proposal to the Chiefs management. The level of interest is intense, with current offers surpassing the initial fee paid by the Chiefs to secure Lilepo's services back in early 2025. Additionally, another unnamed club from the region has also expressed interest, indicating that the Chiefs could make a substantial profit from a potential transfer.
Despite the escalating transfer speculations, it seems that frustration is brewing for Lilepo behind the scenes. His recent cryptic social media posts, featuring messages such as "leaving bye" and "bye bye," have fueled rumors that his relationship with the club may have reached a tipping point. Nevertheless, the Chiefs maintain considerable leverage regarding any potential transfer, as Lilepo is contracted until June 2027, with an option to extend for an additional year. Any club aiming to secure his services will need to meet a valuation that reflects his status as one of the league's leading playmakers.
Since joining in January 2025, Lilepo has made a significant impact, scoring 15 goals and providing five assists in 56 appearances. He played a key role in ending the club’s lengthy trophy drought with a victory in the Nedbank Cup and contributed to a third-place finish in the Premier Soccer League last season. However, his absence from the Spanish tour, where the Chiefs are set to face European and Saudi Arabian teams, suggests that Da Cruz may be strategizing for a future without the Congolese winger. Alongside Lilepo, other notable players such as Thabo Cele and Ashley Du Preez have also been left behind, hinting at possible changes in the squad's composition as the club prepares for their upcoming match against Zimbabwe’s Scottland FC on July 26.
As reported by goal.com.
