PSL 2024/25 in review | Kaizer Chiefs, Golden Arrows and others reflect on mixed fortunes

As the dust settles on a dramatic Betway Premiership season, it's time to take stock of how each club fared — from those who soared against the odds to others who stumbled despite high hopes.

Mihlali Baleka and Obakeng Meletshe reflect on the campaigns of clubs that finished from 12th to ninth, unpacking their highs, lows, key figures and what the future may hold.

12th | Golden Arrows

A campaign of low expectations, late panic, and brief resurgence.

Golden Arrows faced several early-season challenges, starting with Mabhuti Khenyeza stepping down, only to later resurface at Chippa United. Interim duo Kagisho Dikgacoi and Musa Bilankulu held things together reasonably, but hopes of a Top 8 finish faded quickly.

The return of coach Manqoba Mngqithi offered encouragement, yet the team still found themselves embroiled in a relegation scrap — one they narrowly escaped by a four-point margin after a nervy season finale.

The good and the bad: Their league double over Kaizer Chiefs was a rare highlight in a largely inconsistent season. Arrows' inability to string together strong performances has plagued them since their last top-eight finish in 2020/21. The departure of Khenyeza was a disruptive blow the club could ill afford.

Star player: Shadrack Kobedi | Young Turk (U23 player): Sbonelo Cele | Player on the transfer radar: Nduduzo Sibiya

What’s to come: The appointment of Mngqithi could still bring much-needed stability. He may just help unlock the consistency required for a return to the league's upper half.

11th | Chippa United

A campaign that began with promise but faded into the familiar mediocrity

The Chilli Boys improved marginally from last season’s 12th-place but were ultimately left frustrated after narrowly missing out on a Top 8 spot by just two points. Their late-season collapse — earning only one point from their final five matches — proved costly.

Coach Thabo September, who remained after co-coach Kwanele Kopo stepped down, has now parted ways with the club as his contract expires in June.

The good and the bad: The emergence of promising youngsters and securing top-flight status were bright spots. However, the club’s persistent instability remains an issue, with another managerial change expected. 

Star player: Andile Jali | Young Turk: Azola Matrose | Player on the transfer radar: Sinoxolo Kwayiba

What’s to come: As ever, expect a new coach, last-minute signings, and another scrap to stay in the league. Expectations will exceed resources and another mid-season sacking seems inevitable.

10th | Marumo Gallants

Same chaos behind the scenes, slightly better on the pitch

Gallants returned to the top flight after acquiring Moroka Swallows’ status — a move that raised eyebrows, especially after their recent relegation due to poor administration. That instability reared its head again, with Dylan Kerr gone before a ball was kicked, Dan Malesela axed mid-season, and Abdeslam Ouaddou stepping in to bring some semblance of order.

Gallants earned big wins over the likes of Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates, but their season ended in typical drama: Ouaddou has reportedly resigned after being told there’s no budget for him next season — a claim the club denies.

The good and the bad: Ouaddou’s arrival steadied the ship, and his players showed great spirit against the big guns. But the recurring theme of poor leadership threatens to undo any progress.

Star player: Monde Mphambaniso | Young Turk: Daniel Msendami | Player on the transfer radar: Masindi Nemtajela

What’s to come: Without a credible coach and leadership reset, Gallants risk slipping into another cycle of dysfunction and relegation.

Ninth | Kaizer Chiefs

Strange, surreal, and saved at the death

Kaizer Chiefs ended their decade-long trophy drought — but the route was anything but straightforward. A disastrous league campaign saw them miss out on the MTN8 for a second consecutive year, finishing outside the Top 8 with their lowest goal tally (25) and points total (32) in recent memory.

Yet, winning the Nedbank Cup not only brought long-awaited silverware, but also earned them a spot in the CAF Confederation Cup.

The good and the bad: Coach Nasreddine Nabi started strong, promoting youth and integrating new talent. But the pressure to win forced him to revert to senior players, halting progress.

Star player: Makabi Lilepo | Young Turk: Wandile Duba | Player on the transfer radar: Mduduzi Shabalala

What’s to come: If Nabi is backed in the transfer window, Chiefs could finally return to title contention. But without meaningful reinforcements, they may again find themselves lost in transition.