Chippa in Talks with Ex-Royal AM Pair Over Contracts

Chippa United is nearing the acquisition of former Royal AM stars Sisanda Mbhele and Bandile Dlamini.

The club is anticipated to introduce these players in the upcoming days as part of its revamped roster, under the leadership of the newly appointed head coach, Sinethemba Badela.

In addition to Badela, former Orlando Pirates midfielder Musa Nyatama will be joining the coaching staff. They are stepping in for Thabo September and Mabhuti Khenyeza, who previously filled the roles of head and assistant coaches, respectively, and left the club after the last season.

Besides Mbhele and Dlamini, Chippa United is also set to reveal the signings of Justice Figareido and Somila Ntsundwana, both of whom completed their time with Richards Bay at the conclusion of last season. Furthermore, there are circulating rumors that Goodman Mosele and Azola Tshobeni, currently on loan from Orlando Pirates, might be transferring to Chippa. Their absence from Pirates’ pre-season training camp in Spain has intensified speculation regarding their potential moves.

Mbhele was promoted to the senior team of Royal AM during the 2023/24 season under coach John Maduka, after delivering strong performances in the DStv Diski Challenge (DDC). Due to a FIFA transfer ban impacting Royal AM’s DDC squad, he swiftly moved up to the first team and participated in four matches for the now-defunct club.

As per the PSL draft, Chippa United is set to commence their 2025/26 season against defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns at Buffalo City Stadium on Saturday, 9 August.