Chiefs hand Dillan Solomons new deal as Fernando da Cruz era begins

The deal comes as AmaKhosi continue reshaping their squad ahead of the 2026/27 season, with new head coach Fernando Da Cruz expected to arrive next week to begin pre-season and usher in a new era.

Solomons joined Chiefs from Moroka Swallows in 2022 and has endured a mixed spell at the club – although he arrived with high expectations, the 29-year-old has battled injuries and stiff competition for a regular starting place. 

Despite those setbacks, he featured in 19 matches across all competitions last season under Nasreddine Nabi before Cedric Kaze and Khalil Ben Youssef took over on an interim basis following the Tunisian's departure.

The new contract represents a vote of confidence from Chiefs, while also giving Solomons the opportunity to prove his long-term value under Da Cruz. 

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With his future now secured for another season, the defender will be eager to establish himself as the club's first-choice right-back.

Chiefs are expected to make further changes to the squad in the coming days, with several players set to depart and decisions still pending on a number of senior stars whose contracts expire at the end of the month. 

The Soweto giants have already confirmed the signing of defender Thabo Moloisane from Stellenbosch FC on a free transfer, while midfielder George Matlou and academy graduate Happy Mashiane are among the players released as preparations for the new campaign gathers momentum.