With just weeks remaining before the start of the 2026/27 Betway Premiership season, clubs across South Africa are leaving no stone unturned as they intensify pre-season preparations, appoint new coaches and strengthen their squads with key signings.
Defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns have once again demonstrated their intent to remain the team to beat. The Brazilians have added several high-profile players to their squad, including the return of striker Cassius Mailula from Major League Soccer, while also bringing in Ricardo Goss, Kobamelo Kodisang, Antonio van Wyk and several other promising talents. The club, however, bid farewell to long-serving Namibian striker Peter Shalulile after a successful spell in Tshwane.
Kaizer Chiefs have also been active in the transfer market as they continue rebuilding their squad following an inconsistent campaign. Amakhosi have strengthened key positions while evaluating several young players during their overseas pre-season tour, where they have tested themselves against quality international opposition. Reports also suggest the club continues to assess the futures of a number of senior players as they reshape the squad.
Orlando Pirates have entered a new era after making changes both on and off the field. The Buccaneers have released seven players as part of their restructuring programme while continuing preparations under their technical team ahead of another challenge for league honours and continental football.
Sekhukhune United have also made headlines after strengthening their technical bench with experienced coaching personnel as they look to challenge the traditional powerhouses. The club has complemented the coaching appointments with strategic player acquisitions aimed at improving last season’s performance.
Elsewhere, newly promoted clubs Durban City and Kruger United are working hard to assemble competitive squads capable of surviving in the country’s top flight. Both clubs have been active in recruiting experienced players while giving opportunities to talented youngsters who impressed in the Motsepe Foundation Championship.
Richards Bay, Lamontville Golden Arrows, AmaZulu, Chippa United, Stellenbosch FC and Polokwane City have all completed several player signings and releases as they prepare for what promises to be another fiercely contested campaign. Richards Bay have strengthened with players including Philani Sithebe’s arrival, while Golden Arrows have added Eroine Agnikoi and Mnqobi Gumede among others.
Across the country, clubs are engaged in rigorous fitness programmes, tactical sessions and friendly matches aimed at improving match sharpness before the opening weekend. Several teams have travelled abroad for specialised training camps, while others are participating in local pre-season tournaments to assess new combinations and integrate fresh signings into their systems.
With the transfer window still open, more player movements are expected before the new season kicks off. Supporters will be hoping that their clubs have recruited wisely as the race for the Betway Premiership title, CAF inter-club qualification places and survival promises to be one of the most competitive in recent years.
The countdown to the new campaign has officially begun, and all eyes will now be on whether the new signings and coaching appointments can deliver success when the first whistle of the 2026/27 Betway Premiership season blows.
