Naturena, Johannesburg – Kaizer Chiefs’ squad overhaul continues to make waves, with the latest ripple being the reported arrival of highly-rated right-back Mhleli Mabuza at the Village. While the club is yet to officially confirm the signing, multiple sources indicate the former Royal AM and Richards Bay defender has joined the Amakhosi ranks. This acquisition, however, throws the immediate future of current right-backs Dillan Solomons and Reeve Frosler into serious doubt, with strong indications that one must now make way.
Mabuza, 25, arrives with a burgeoning reputation. Known for his explosive pace, athleticism, overlapping runs, and solid defensive contributions, he fits the profile of the modern, attack-minded fullback that new coach Nasreddine Nabi is believed to favour. His performances for Royal AM, particularly in the 2022/23 season, consistently caught the eye and made him a sought-after commodity.
The Logjam at Right-Back:
This signing creates a significant bottleneck in a position Chiefs have struggled to solidify:
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Reeve Frosler: Once seen as the long-term heir, Frosler’s form has been inconsistent. While possessing technical ability and experience, questions linger about his defensive positioning, susceptibility to pace, and overall impact. Injuries have also hampered his progress. His contract situation (reportedly expiring in 2025) makes him a potential candidate for sale.
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Dillan Solomons: Brought in from Swallows FC with high hopes, Solomons has shown flashes of his potential – tenacity, work rate, and versatility (able to play left-back or even midfield). However, his final delivery and decision-making in the attacking third have often been criticized, and like Frosler, consistency has been elusive.
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Mhleli Mabuza: The new arrival represents direct competition. His attributes seem tailored for Nabi’s likely system, demanding high energy and width from fullbacks. He arrives with momentum and a point to prove at a big club.
Why One Must Likely Depart:
Chiefs are unlikely to carry three senior specialist right-backs into the new season. Financial Fair Play considerations, squad balance, and the need to free up space (and potentially funds) for further reinforcements in other areas all point towards an exit for one of the incumbents.
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Frosler’s Case: His experience and technical base could attract interest, potentially fetching a reasonable fee. A fresh start might benefit both player and club.
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Solomons’ Case: His versatility could be an asset in a trimmed squad, but if Nabi sees him as primarily a right-back and favours Mabuza, his opportunities could drastically diminish. His market value might also be lower than Frosler’s.
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Pre-Season Crucible: The upcoming pre-season camp under Nabi will be absolutely crucial. Both Frosler and Solomons will need to impress the new technical team significantly to prove they can outperform Mabuza or offer something unique. Nabi’s assessment will be paramount.
Fan Reaction and Speculation:
The news has ignited debate among the Amakhosi faithful. Some welcome Mabuza’s dynamism as a much-needed upgrade. Others express loyalty to Frosler or Solomons, hoping they can rediscover their best form under new management. The consensus, however, is pragmatic: a surplus in one position necessitates a sale elsewhere.
Management’s Dilemma:
The Chiefs hierarchy, led by Sporting Director Kaizer Motaung Jr. and Coach Nabi, now face a tough decision:
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Who fits Nabi’s tactical blueprint best?
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Who holds more transfer market value?
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Who has the higher potential ceiling moving forward?
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Does Solomons’ versatility save him?
The Verdict:
Mhleli Mabuza walking through the gates at Naturena isn’t just a new signing; it’s a direct challenge and a signal of intent. It unequivocally places the spotlight on Dillan Solomons and Reeve Frosler. While pre-season performances could alter the equation, the harsh reality of squad building suggests one of these two established Chiefs defenders will likely be wearing different colours by the time the 2024/25 DStv Premiership kicks off.The right-back battle at Naturena has just intensified dramatically, and the loser may find themselves seeking pastures new. The clock is ticking for Solomons and Frosler.
