Da Cruz Reveals New Roles For Vilakazi And Velebayi
Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando Da Cruz has offered a clear insight into how he intends to use Mfundo Vilakazi and Asanele Velebayi this season, with the duo seemingly set to play a far more prominent role than they did last campaign.
Vilakazi and Velebayi have been among the biggest beneficiaries since Da Cruz took charge of the Soweto giants. Both featured regularly during the club’s pre-season tour of Spain before earning starting berths in Sunday’s 1-0 Toyota Cup victory over Zimbabwean side Scottland FC at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium.
The pair endured a frustrating 2025/26 season under former co-coaches Khalil Ben Youssef and Cedric Kaze, with Pule Mmodi and Glody Lilepo preferred in the wide attacking positions.
More often than not, Vilakazi and Velebayi were limited to brief cameos late in matches, while on several occasions they remained unused substitutes.
Da Cruz, however, has made it clear that he does not view either player as a traditional winger, explaining that their positioning will vary depending on the opposition and the team’s tactical approach.
“It depends on which area of the pitch we are in,” he said.
“It also depends on the structure of the opponent and our model of play.
“I ask them to play wide at times and move inside at other times. We change a lot.”
Vilakazi has already spoken about the confidence Da Cruz has shown in him. After being named Man of the Match in the Toyota Cup final against Scottland FC, the youngster revealed that his coach has challenged him to reach even greater heights this season.
According to Vilakazi, Da Cruz told him that he wants to develop him into the best player in the Betway Premiership this campaign, underlining the Frenchman’s belief in the talented midfielder.
Meanwhile, Da Cruz also provided an encouraging update on Bafana Bafana defender Bradley Cross, who was forced off on the stroke of half-time against Scottland FC after picking up a knock and was replaced by Given Msimango.
“He felt some pain, but it was more of a precaution because he had a short pre-season,” Da Cruz said.
“For him, it was a short pre-season after the World Cup, and we will need him throughout the season, so it was purely a precaution.”
Chiefs will now turn their attention to their opening 2026/27 Betway Premiership fixture against newly promoted Kruger United in Mpumalanga on Saturday.
Vilakazi and Velebayi will be hoping to retain their places in the starting line-up after impressing during pre-season and in the Toyota Cup, while Cross will also be aiming to recover in time to feature as Amakhosi begin their league campaign under their new coach.
