Kaizer Chiefs have suffered another major setback with midfielder George Matlou ruled out for the remainder of the 2025/26 season after undergoing knee surgery .
Injury Details
The 27-year-old picked up the injury in Amakhosi’s 2-1 defeat to Zamalek SC in the CAF Confederation Cup on 14 February 2026 . Following further medical assessment, surgery was deemed necessary, with the recovery timeline expected to extend over several months .
Matlou had only just returned from a prior setback and had featured in four matches before suffering another blow . His season had already been limited, with the midfielder making just six appearances before the injury .
Contract Uncertainty
With his contract due to expire at the end of June, the latest development raises further questions about his long-term future at Naturena . Reports from early February indicated that the club had yet to make a decision regarding his long-term role, despite his deal approaching its expiration . There has been interest from AmaZulu, who are reportedly monitoring his situation .
Growing Injury List
Matlou’s situation compounds an already concerning injury list at Chiefs . Long-term absentee Rushwin Dortley remains on the recovery path after sustaining a severe knee injury a year ago, having since been absent for over 40 competitive fixtures . Reeve Frosler is also undergoing an extended spell on the sidelines .
Goalkeeper Brandon Petersen is another player currently receiving treatment after undergoing an appendix operation on Friday, 27 February, which ruled him out of the Soweto Derby . He is expected to be sidelined for two to three weeks . Given Msimango is also out due to injury .
Team’s Poor Form
The Glamour Boys have been going through a rough patch in recent weeks, losing against Orlando Pirates in the Soweto Derby, followed by another defeat against Richards Bay in the Betway Premiership . They have lost four out of their last five matches in all competitions and are currently struggling to retain their place amongst the top five teams in the league this season .
With the injury list growing at a pivotal point in the season, Amakhosi’s depth and resilience will be under significant scrutiny . Chiefs are scheduled to return to action on 15 March against Durban City
