Kaizer Chiefs’ bold move to sign Bongani Sam from rivals Orlando Pirates has turned into a financial and footballing misfire. Nearly a year since his arrival, the 27-year-old left-back has yet to feature in a single competitive match for Amakhosi.
Sam joined Chiefs ahead of the 2023/2024 season in a deal that raised eyebrows. At the time, the move shocked many fans and analysts alike, considering his limited game time at Pirates and patchy loan spells at Maritzburg United and Moroka Swallows. Despite the risk, the club inked him on a three-year deal with an option for a fourth.
No minutes, no impact by Sam
Since signing, Sam has not made a single appearance for Chiefs. A combination of injury and non-selection has kept him sidelined throughout the season. In fact, his last competitive minutes date back to December 2023, six months before arriving at Naturena.
This prolonged absence places Chiefs in an uncomfortable position. Not only have they gone a full season without any on-field contribution from Sam, but they’ve also reportedly shelled out over R1 million in salaries and signing-on fees with nothing to show for it.
“Chiefs made a big mistake with Sam, how can you sign someone who never played a full season? The talent is there but the consistency was not,” a source told The South African.
Track record overlooked by Chiefs
Sam’s playing history hardly justified the investment. During his stint at Pirates, he completed just seven full matches and appeared sporadically in another 21 fixtures, often falling out of favour and eventually heading out on loan. Yet, Chiefs pushed through with the signing, hoping for a turnaround that has not materialised.
Now, with at least two years left on his contract, cutting ties would come at a significant financial cost, another dilemma for a Kaizer Chiefs desperate to rebuild and regain competitiveness.
Sam, once expected to challenge for a starting role, hasn’t even entered the frame.
As the Soweto giants prepare for the upcoming season, one question remains.
Will Bongani Sam ever justify the investment, or will he go down as one of the most baffling signings in the club’s recent history?
Let us know by leaving a comment below or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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