AmaZulu’s pre-season shake-up raises questions ahead of MTN8

AmaZulu’s technical team are grappling with growing concerns over a lack of squad depth and experience as they prepare for a testing MTN8 quarter-final showdown against Stellenbosch FC on Sunday.

Having finished sixth last season, Usuthu earned a place in the lucrative Top 8 competition — but as the 2025/26 campaign kicks off, head coach Arthur Zwane is still piecing together a squad capable of challenging on all fronts, including the push for CAF qualification.

The Durban-based side released a staggering 17 players at the end of last season, triggering a major squad overhaul that has left gaps across key positions. 

Long-serving figures such as Veli Mothwa, Ramahlwe Mphahlele, Mbongeni Gumede, and Rowan Human were among those shown the exit door.

With just days to go before their clash against Stellies, only a handful of new faces have been seen in AmaZulu colours, including defender Keagan Allen, goalkeeper Darren Johnson, and striker Ryan Moon — all of whom featured during the KZN Premier’s Cup this past weekend. However, more arrivals are expected before the close of the transfer window.

Assistant coach Siboniso Vilakazi admitted that the team is still far from settled and that the loss of experience has been deeply felt during pre-season.

“When you look at the second team against Durban City, it tells you that we don’t have depth because it was a completely new team,” said Vilakazi, after their semi-final exit in the KZN Premier’s Cup.

“We have players that we are trying to reinforce with who have experience at the highest level and some who are coming back from loans and those from our youth systems.”

Vilakazi was encouraged by the performances of some of the younger players but warned that youth alone won’t be enough to carry the team through a demanding season.

“So, we are not starting from scratch,” he added. “But after this tournament, even though we are happy with the performance of the youngsters, we know the depth is not there as yet.”

Usuthu’s situation is made more urgent by the timing of the MTN8. 

The clash against a settled and well-drilled Stellenbosch side, who themselves are eyeing silverware this season, will offer a stern test of just how ready Zwane’s side really is.

The club’s recruitment strategy is expected to remain aggressive over the coming weeks, with emphasis on bringing in players who offer leadership and experience, particularly in defence and midfield.

For now, Zwane and his staff are walking a tightrope — balancing long-term rebuilding with the short-term pressure of performing in a knockout competition. And as the countdown to Sunday begins, AmaZulu’s depth and cohesion will face their first real examination.