After confirming the exit of 18 players, Chippa United have wasted no time in rebuilding for the 2025/26 Betway Premiership campaign, setting their sights on Eswatini international and Richards Bay striker Justice Figuareido.
The Gqeberha-based outfit, commonly known as the Chilli Boys, have already bolstered their backroom staff by appointing former All Stars coach Sinethemba Badela as head coach and Sinesipho Mali as sporting director. The reshuffle signals a clear intent to revamp both on and off the pitch.
According to iDiski TV, Chippa United were already in advanced talks with the Natal Rich Boys over the services of the 26-year-old striker. While the transfer fee remains undisclosed, the publication reported that personal terms were not expected to be a stumbling block.
“If a club-to-club agreement is reached, Figuareido, who is originally from Eswatini, is expected to undergo medicals in Gqeberha,” shared the publication.
The forward has made 52 appearances for Richards Bay over the past two seasons, scoring six goals and providing three assists. While those statistics may seem modest, his physical presence, energy, and ability to link up play have reportedly impressed the Chippa technical team.
The Chilli Boys struggled to find the back of the net last season, scoring just 28 times in as many league matches. They lost Elmo Kambindu to AmaZulu in January and recently parted ways with Bienvenu Eva Nga, leaving a clear void in attack.
Figuareido is now seen as the right fit to help lead a new attacking era at Chippa, one that coach Badela and sporting director Mali hope will bring more consistency and firepower to their frontline.
The 18 players that were released by the club included former Orlando Pirates stars Andile Jali, Justice Chabalala, Bienvenu Eva Nga, and Ronald Maarman.
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