Zitha Kwinika agrees to new Kaizer Chiefs deal

The centre back had been the subject of speculation regarding his future at Naturena with his initial deal set to expire at the end of the 2024/25 season – and at the time Kwinika appeared surplus to requirements. 

But with injuries to Rushwin Dortley as well as Miguel Inacio serving countless suspensions, coach Nasreddine Nabi was forced to turn to Kwinika. 

The former Stellenbosch FC captain showed great leadership with his contribution in the final weeks of the campaign as Chiefs managed to end a decade long trophy drought by winning the Nedbank Cup. 

Kwinika started – and finished – four of the last five Betway Premiership matches for Amakhosi as well as the cup final victory over bitter rivals Orlando Pirates. 

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Chiefs then announced the departure of Edmilson Dove, a player who had in fact managed more minutes than Kwinika during the season, putting doubts on whether they would hold on to their academy product. 

However, the public broadcaster has then since established that the 31-year-old, who made the pre-season trip to the Netherlands with Chiefs, has agreed a one-year contract with The Glamour Boys. 

It means Kwinika gets another year to prove his worth to Nabi and his technical team over the next 12 months. 

While Chiefs have beefed up in defense, the club has only focused on fullbacks where Kwinika had to slot during the season.

But the centre back positions remain up for grabs.