Kaizer Chiefs have brought in five players during the current transfer window, with Khanyisa Mayo completing a permanent move to Naturena.

Despite making several additions, Amakhosi are still searching for the right balance under head coach Fernando Da Cruz.

Chiefs made a promising start to the season but have struggled for consistency in recent weeks. Four draws and just one victory in their last five matches have seen them lose ground on league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns.

Of the club’s five new arrivals, Langelihle Phili, Renaldo Leaner and Faiz Abrahams have made particularly encouraging starts in the famous gold and black.

The arrival of new players has also resulted in Da Cruz making difficult decisions within his squad. Thabo Cele, Ashley Du Preez, Given Msimango and Gaston Sirino were among the players to leave the club.

With the January transfer window less than 100 days away, Kaizer Chiefs will have another opportunity to strengthen their squad while also potentially moving on players who have failed to establish themselves.

Here are three players who could face an uncertain future at Naturena.

Nkosingiphile Ngcobo

Nkosingiphile Ngcobo’s future at Kaizer Chiefs has been the subject of speculation, with the midfielder having struggled to establish himself as a regular in recent seasons.

There were already reports linking him with an exit before the previous transfer window closed, but he ultimately remained at Naturena.

Ngcobo will now need to make a strong impression under Da Cruz if he is to remain part of the club’s long-term plans.

With his contract set to expire at the end of the season, Chiefs could potentially consider a January sale or loan move rather than risk losing the midfielder for nothing.

Kaizer Chiefs have left-backs injured

Paseka Mako

Paseka Mako could also find himself facing an uncertain future at Chiefs.

The former Orlando Pirates left-back arrived at Naturena last season but has struggled to maintain his fitness due to injuries.

Chiefs currently lack significant depth at left-back, which could work in Mako’s favour. However, if his injury problems continue and Da Cruz identifies another option in the position, the club could consider moving him on.

Much could depend on Mako’s fitness and performances between now and January.

Nkhanyisa Shinga

Nkhanyisa Shinga faces perhaps the biggest challenge of the three.

The left-back has made just one official appearance for Kaizer Chiefs before suffering an injury, limiting his opportunity to impress Da Cruz.

With competition for places increasing and the coach continuing to reshape his squad, Shinga will need to make the most of his opportunities once he returns to full fitness.

His contract situation could also become a factor. If he fails to convince Da Cruz that he deserves a place in the squad, Amakhosi could decide against extending his stay when his current deal expires.

For all three players, the coming months could prove crucial. Kaizer Chiefs have already shown a willingness to reshape their squad, and another round of changes could be on the cards when the January window opens.

Who should replace these players?