Da Cruz breaks silence on Lilepo’s future

New Kaizer Chiefs head coach, Fernardo Da Cruz, has provided an update on DRC international, Glody Lilepo, ahead of the 2026/27 season.

Lilepo joined Chiefs in January 2025 from French Ligue 1 side Valenciennes FC for an undisclosed fee.

In his debut season at Naturena, the attacker scored four goals and registered one assist, helping the Glamour Boys end their 10-year trophy drought end by lifting the Nedbank Cup.

Lilepo’s absence from Chiefs’ pre-season tour of Spain sparked speculation over his future, but finally Da Cruz broke the silence.

“Lilepo he has other opportunities elsewhere,” Da Cruz told the media. “And the management is open to listen as the institution.”

Meanwhile,  Da Cruz will be hoping to make a good first impression on the Amakhosi faithful when he takes charge of his first match on Saturday afternoon.

Amakhosi host Zimbabwean champions, Scottland FC, in a pre-season friendly in Rustenburg as preparations for the new season continue.

Da Cruz has emphasised the importance of the match, describing it as his final opportunity to assess his squad before the start of the Betway Premiership season.

The Frenchman has returns to Chiefs after a brief stint as an assistant coach under former coach, Nasreddine Nabi.

Da Cruz says his side will be going all out for the win tomorrow.

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Written by: Ntsako Mukhari