Ethan Chislett aims to energise Chiefs midfield ahead of crucial season

Kaizer Chiefs' new signing Ethan Chislett is hoping to bring a fresh wave of creativity and intensity to the club's midfield as they prepare for what could be a pivotal 2025/26 Premiership season.

With Mamelodi Sundowns chasing an unprecedented ninth consecutive league title, the spotlight will once again fall on who can finally halt their dominance. Chiefs, who have endured two underwhelming seasons, will face growing pressure to deliver immediate results—particularly in the league.

Head coach Nasreddine Nabi enters his second season in charge, boosted by last season’s Nedbank Cup triumph. That success will serve as both a confidence-booster and a springboard as he looks to guide the Glamour Boys back to the summit.

The Soweto giants have been busy in the transfer market, addressing key weaknesses from last season—many of which were exposed through inconsistent performances and frequent squad rotations.

Among the most notable arrivals is former AFC Wimbledon midfielder Chislett, whose signing has generated significant excitement.

Born in Durban, the 26-year-old left South Africa at the age of six and grew up in the United Kingdom. Now back on home soil, he’s not only aiming to re-establish Chiefs as a top contender but also harbours ambitions of donning the Bafana Bafana jersey.

Currently with the team on their pre-season tour of the Netherlands, Chislett is adjusting well to his new surroundings.

“Joining a new club is never the easiest thing in the world,” he said. 

“You have to adapt and express yourself while trying to get to know everyone in the team. It’s a lot to take in, but everyone has been amazing and happy—and that’s why I love South Africa; everyone is always happy.”

Before the league kicks off, he’ll have the chance to return to his birthplace as Amakhosi are set to face Ghanaian giants Asante Kotoko in a pre-season friendly at the Moses Mabhida Stadium. For Chislett, that game carries special meaning.

“It will be surreal,” he continued.

“It’s something I’ll look back on. I was at the 2010 World Cup to watch Brazil play Portugal in that stadium, so it will be unbelievable for me and my family.”

The 26-year-old is the son of former Manning Rangers right-back Donovan Chislett, and he brings versatility and attacking instinct. His ability to play multiple roles across the front and midfield positions could be a major asset for Nabi.

“I have played almost everywhere in midfield — the number six, eight and ten positions. I have also played left and right wing, and I have also played as a striker a few times, more like a false nine.

“But I like playing all the positions. I like coming in from the left with my right foot, but my position is number ten.

“I bring creativity, but I am also aware that you need to score goals in football as they can win you games — and if you don't, the best you'll ever get is a draw. I would like to think that I can rise to the occasion of certain games.

“I like to stay on the ball, but sometimes as a ten you have to speed up play, especially in the final third.

“From my understanding, I think when teams play against Chiefs, generally they play a low block more often than not — which is tough to break down. That is where your passing needs to be perfect and accurate, and hopefully I can provide that.”