Kaizer Chiefs’ Core Warriors: Most Trusted Players of the 2024/25 Season Under Nasreddine Nabi

As Kaizer Chiefs continue their journey to restore glory under the leadership of Tunisian coach Nasreddine Nabi, the 2024/25 season marked a period of significant change and development. Known for his tactical discipline and emphasis on structure, Nabi faced the monumental task of reshaping the Amakhosi’s identity while bringing consistency back to Naturena.

Through this transformation, a core group of players emerged — individuals who consistently delivered on the pitch, played key roles in matches, and earned the trust of the coach. These players represented a blend of youth and experience, and together, they laid the foundation for what fans hope is a brighter future for the club.

In this article, we take a closer look at the ten most relied-upon players during the 2024/25 season and what made them indispensable to Nabi’s game plan.

1. Inácio Miguel – 2,384 Minutes

Inácio Miguel was the undisputed pillar of Kaizer Chiefs’ defense. The Angolan-Portuguese centre-back, who arrived with little fanfare, quickly proved himself as one of the most reliable players in the squad. Playing 29 matches and leading the team in minutes played, Miguel’s calmness under pressure and strong aerial ability helped the team in both defensive and attacking set-pieces.

His reading of the game was exceptional, often intercepting passes and making crucial tackles at just the right moments. Inácio also chipped in with 4 goals over the course of the season, showing he could be a threat going forward as well.

2. Yusuf Maart – 2,295 Minutes

Yusuf Maart was the engine of the team. As a box-to-box midfielder, Maart played a vital role in linking defense and attack. His stamina, leadership, and composure on the ball were unmatched in the squad. He started in almost every match and missed just one game throughout the season.

Not only was he a ball-winner, but his ability to distribute the ball and maintain possession in tight spaces made him an essential part of Nabi’s midfield strategy. His performances often dictated the rhythm of the game, and his experience helped calm the team during tense moments.

3. Bruce Bvuma – 2,070 Minutes

In goal, Bruce Bvuma was the most trusted goalkeeper, appearing in 33 games. While his performances had ups and downs, he remained the preferred option between the posts. Bvuma pulled off several key saves throughout the season, helping Chiefs secure vital points.

He showed improvement in his shot-stopping and command of the penalty area, though distribution under pressure remained an area for development. Despite criticism, his resilience and determination ensured he retained the number one jersey.

4. Mduduzi Shabalala – 1,893 Minutes

One of the most exciting young talents at Kaizer Chiefs, Mduduzi Shabalala proved his worth this season. The 21-year-old attacking midfielder played 32 matches and scored 4 goals. His creativity and energy in the final third gave Chiefs a spark when it was most needed.

Shabalala’s willingness to take on defenders, create chances, and press from the front made him an invaluable asset in Nabi’s system. He also showed maturity in his decision-making, improving on his previous seasons and becoming a player Chiefs fans are excited to watch grow.

5. Rushwin Dortley – 1,777 Minutes

Rushwin Dortley was a strategic signing from Cape Town Spurs and wasted no time establishing himself as a dependable central defender. At just 23 years old, his composure, positioning, and strong tackling made him a favorite of Nabi.

Dortley’s ability to play out from the back fit well with Nabi’s philosophy of building attacks from the defensive line. He was often tasked with handling the opposition’s most dangerous forwards and usually did so with confidence and efficiency.

6. Reeve Frosler – 1,622 Minutes

Reeve Frosler provided much-needed consistency at right-back. Known for his intelligent positioning and ability to cover large distances, Frosler balanced his defensive responsibilities with overlapping runs to support attacks.

His tactical flexibility allowed him to adapt to different formations, whether in a back four or a wing-back role. Despite some injury setbacks in previous seasons, Frosler remained fit and reliable, bringing stability to a constantly changing defensive setup.

7. Pule Mmodi – 1,588 Minutes

At 32, Pule Mmodi continued to prove his value as a seasoned winger. Mmodi made 30 appearances, scoring 4 goals, and remained a constant threat with his direct style of play. His experience allowed him to read the game better, and his ability to cut inside or deliver crosses kept defenders guessing.

Mmodi was also one of the team’s most committed players off the ball, tracking back to help in defense and pressing opposition defenders. His leadership was quietly influential, especially among the younger players in the squad.

8. Bradley Cross – 1,538 Minutes

Another solid defensive option, Bradley Cross played a crucial role as a left-back. His defensive awareness, good crossing ability, and calm presence under pressure made him an important figure during difficult fixtures.

Cross often faced the task of neutralizing dangerous wingers and was rarely outplayed. His contributions may have gone unnoticed by some, but for Nabi and the technical team, his consistency was key to the team’s defensive structure.

9. Wandile Duba – 1,463 Minutes

Wandile Duba, just 20 years old, was one of the biggest positives for Kaizer Chiefs this season. The young striker led the team in goals with 5 and showed he could handle the pressure of leading the line for one of South Africa’s biggest clubs.

Duba brought energy, pace, and a hunger to score goals. His ability to press defenders and create chances from limited service stood out, and his development over the season suggests he could be Chiefs’ main striker for years to come.

10. Gastón Sirino – 1,455 Minutes

Veteran Uruguayan winger Gastón Sirino brought flair and technical skill to the Chiefs’ attack. Although he joined later in the season, Sirino made a strong impact with his dribbling, quick feet, and creativity.

His international experience added a different dimension to Chiefs’ attack, and he was often used as a game-changer off the bench or as a starter when creativity was needed. He provided crucial assists and moments of magic that helped the team through tough matches.

Check also: Kaizer Chiefs Confirm Ranga Chivaviro’s Departure

The 2024/25 season under Nasreddine Nabi was a time of rebuilding and laying down new foundations. Despite challenges, the team showed promise, largely due to the core group of players who consistently performed. These players became the pillars of a new Kaizer Chiefs identity — one built on discipline, hard work, and unity.

As the club looks ahead to the next season, the performances of these ten players will serve as the benchmark for what is expected in the new era of Amakhosi football.