Kaizer Chiefs' future stars: The young guns who could rescue the Soweto giants' season under Nasreddine Nabi

Bradley Cross joined Kaizer Chiefs this season and has brought European experience to Naturena, having played for Schalke 04’s U19 side in Germany and Newcastle United’s U23s in England. The left-back began his footballing journey with Mpumalanga Black Aces before moving to Bidvest Wits and later Golden Arrows, from where Chiefs secured his services.

Now 23, Cross has cemented himself as coach Nasreddine Nabi’s first-choice left-back, holding his own in the face of stiff competition from Happy Mashiane, Bongani Sam, and Edmilson Dove. His defensive consistency and work ethic have given the Soweto giants stability on the left flank. Cross knows the pressure of donning the iconic gold and black jersey but remains focused on delivering results. Chiefs will hope his European experience helps lead their resurgence.

Rushwin Dortley, a product of the famed Cape Town Spurs academy, has been a revelation since joining Chiefs. The 22-year-old center-back has seamlessly slotted into the team’s defense, showcasing composure, physicality, and tactical awareness well beyond his years. His strong performances earned him a Bafana Bafana call-up, further highlighting his potential.

Despite the team's struggles, Dortley remains a rock at the back, always ready to put his body on the line. His partnership with the more experienced defenders has been crucial, and he’s quickly becoming a fan favorite. Dortley embodies Chiefs’ rebuilding ethos: young, hungry, and full of promise.

Football runs in Samkelo Zwane’s veins. The 23-year-old midfielder, son of Orlando Pirates legend Eugene Zwane, has inherited his father's football IQ while carving out his own identity. Calm and creative, Zwane operates as a central midfielder with vision and precision.

The game against Sekhukhune United highlighted his abilities, earning him the Man of the Match award. While Zwane is still honing his craft, his talent is evident, and his maturity under pressure is growing game by game. He understands that patience is vital in his development, even as the team demands immediate results.

Promoted to the first team in June 2022, Mduduzi Shabalala has transformed from a fringe player into one of Kaizer Chiefs’ most important attacking assets. Now 21, he’s emerged as the team’s go-to player this season, scoring four goals despite the struggles of many senior teammates.

Shabalala’s journey includes an assessment in Belgium with KSV Westerlo, which has added layers to his skill set. His ability to find the back of the net, coupled with his creativity, makes him a vital part of Amakhosi’s future. In a tough season, he’s consistently raised his hand and shown leadership qualities beyond his years.

Another graduate from Chiefs' academy, Vilakazi has quickly endeared himself to the fans in his first season with the senior team. At just 19 years old, he’s provided moments of magic, contributing two goals and an assist in 15 games. He is a breath of fresh air with his flair, seamlessly combining crowd-pleasing artistry with the ability to eliminate opponents.

Vilakazi is the darling of the fans, and his big heart shines through every time he dons the jersey. When called upon, he delivers, showcasing creativity and composure that belied his age. His energy on the pitch has been instrumental in lifting team morale during tough matches. Chiefs truly have a gem in Vilakazi, whose journey is only beginning but is already promising to be something special.

Versatile and confident, 20-year-old Wandile Duba has taken every opportunity since his 2023 promotion to the first team. Equally adept as a winger or striker, he’s already netted four goals this season and continues to impress with his adaptability.

Duba’s hunger and fearless approach make him one to watch. He exudes the confidence needed to thrive at a big club like Chiefs and is relishing every chance to prove himself. Duba’s performances hint at a bright future, and he’s determined to cement his spot as a regular starter.

From the days of Thabo Mooki, Doctor Khumalo, Shakes Kungwane, Gerald Sibeko, Itumeleng Khune, and Jabu Mahlangu, Kaizer Chiefs have had a proud history of nurturing talent from their development ranks into household names for the Soweto giants. These players embodied the club's values, thrilling fans with their skills while cementing Chiefs’ legacy in South African football. Over the years, the Amakhosi faithful have grown accustomed to seeing their academy products step up in pivotal moments.

However, it has been some time since the club has seen homegrown youngsters truly rise to the occasion. This absence has left many yearning for the return of a generation that can recapture the magic of those legendary names. Now, two more players from the Chiefs’ academy are showing immense promise and preparing to stake their claim on the big stage. With the weight of the club’s history on their shoulders, they have the potential to revive the proud tradition of Chiefs' youth development.

A 20-year-old attacking midfielder under coach Vela Khumalo in the DDC side, Tati has caught the eye with his goal-scoring and playmaking abilities. Often compared to Mduduzi Shabalala, he possesses a similar knack for delivering in crucial moments. Tati is cut from the same mold as the legendary Thabo Mooki, blending silky skills with a creative vision that delights fans and disrupts opponents.

His ability to dictate the tempo and make incisive passes under pressure makes him a vital cog in the development side's attacking engine. The young maestro also has a keen eye for goal, capable of changing the game with a moment of brilliance. It’s only a matter of time before Tati breaks into the first team, where his dynamic playstyle could be key in driving Chiefs back to glory

The 19-year-old striker from Vaal is on the brink of a senior call-up after traveling with the first team for their clash against Sekhukhune United. Hlongwane showcased his potential in the Carling Cup match against Magesi, scoring a brace to secure a 3-0 win and earning the Man of the Match award. His natural goal-scoring ability and calmness under pressure make him a valuable asset for the future.

What sets Hlongwane apart is his fearless approach to the game, a trait that has already captured the attention of the coaching staff. He has the instincts of a seasoned striker, often being in the right place at the right time. With each appearance, the young forward proves he is ready to take the leap into the first team and contribute meaningfully to Chiefs' rebuild.