The Kaizer Chiefs Naturena Village in all its glory. Image: Ernest Makhaya

Kaizer Chiefs ready to ditch injured superstar

Tough love.

by James Freemantle

01-05-2024 09:52

in Premier Soccer League

The Kaizer Chiefs Naturena Village in all its glory. Image: Ernest Makhaya

Kaizer Chiefs are ready to offload one of their senior stars who’s reportedly turned down a new contract because of reduced wages.

Dolly is done

31-year-old former Montpellier and Sundowns attacking midfielder Keagan Dolly fractured his toe in March. He made a comeback against Golden Arrows on March 9th but suffered a setback in that match. He has played only EIGHT times across all competitions this season, including seven in the league with a solitary assist. Is that good enough for a player boasting his calibre, experience and salary?

“Kaizer Chiefs are considering the exit of Keagan Dolly as they look to restructure the club and technical team in the off-season. As the highest-paid player at the club, early discussions have been lowered terms. The 31-year-old is likely to part ways if no agreement is made,” according to Rushsportson2 on X.

Keagan Dolly Kaizer Chiefs — Keagan Dolly of Kaizer Chiefs celebrates a goal with teammate Ashley Du Preez. Image: ©Gavin Barker/BackpagePix

Party poopers?

Cavin Johnson’s men, fresh off a much-needed 2-1 win against SuperSport, are out to spoil the Sundowns party this week. The Brazilians will seal a seventh consecutive league title with three points on Thursday against Chiefs. They might even have the title wrapped up before that if Stellenbosch loses to Golden Arrows on Wednesday. Amakhosi face Sundowns on 2 May, with kickoff at 19:30. Amakhosi will want to put on a show for their fans and avoid rolling out the red carpet for Rulani and his team.

What do Sundowns need to secure the crown?

After their routine 3-0 win over TS Galaxy on Monday thanks to a brace from Peter Shalulile and a clincher from Thembinkosi Lorch, Dolly’s old team are within touching distance of the title. They’ve ruled the roost in South Africa, winning six titles on the bounce and seven of the last eight. Although this one has felt like a formality for some time, it will ease some of the pain suffered by Downs fans after their CAF Champions League exit to Esperance in the semi-finals. Three points against Chiefs will mathematically secure the title. However, Sundowns could have the title wrapped up by Wednesday, without kicking a ball, if Stellenbosch loses to Golden Arrows.