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Kaizer Chiefs, affectionately known as Amakhosi (The Amakhosi), boast a rich history brimming with legendary footballers. From watertight defenders to free-flowing attackers, these stars have etched their names into the club’s folklore.
Today, we delve into the realm of the elite, unveiling the 10 greatest players to ever wear the Kaizer Chiefs jersey.
We’ll not only celebrate their on-field brilliance, but also explore their estimated net worth, offering a glimpse into the financial rewards that often accompany footballing greatness.
1. Donald Themba “Ace” Khuse
The roar of the FNB Stadium crowd echoed through Soweto whenever Donald “Ace” Khuse graced the pitch. A legend etched in the hearts of Kaizer Chiefs fans, Khuse wasn’t just a player, he was a magician with the ball at his feet.
Arriving in 1989, Khuse spearheaded a Chiefs team that tantalisingly close to claiming every trophy on offer.
His skills weren’t confined to the local scene. Khuse’s talent transcended borders, leaving audiences spellbound with his flawless technique during stints with Sundowns in South Africa, and Turkish clubs like Ganclebirligi and Antalayspor.
He returned to Kaizer Chiefs in 1997, forever solidifying his place as one of the “Phefeni Glamour Boys'” greatest midfielders.
According to various sources, Ace Khuse’s illustrious career translates to an estimated net worth of $1-5 million. This figure serves as a testament to his dedication to the beautiful game and the success he achieved on the pitch.
2. Kaizer Motaung
Long before the roar of the Amakhosi faithful echoed through the stands, Kaizer Motaung, known as “Chincha Guluva” (meaning “The Short Destroyer”), was a force to be reckoned with.
A lethal weapon in the attacking line, his knack for finding the net in Kaizer Chiefs’ early years laid the foundation for the club’s future dominance.
Motaung wasn’t just a scorer, he was a pioneer. A former player himself, his vision and leadership transformed him from a feared striker into the architect of a footballing dynasty.
Taking the helm as chairman and managing director of Kaizer Chiefs, he built a club that became synonymous with South African football excellence.
While building a powerhouse club, Kaizer Motaung himself reportedly amassed a significant fortune. Estimates suggest his net worth sits around $60 million, a testament to his shrewd business acumen and enduring passion for the beautiful game.
3. Patrick “Ace” Ntsoelengoe
A legend who brought smiles to countless faces, Patrick “Ace” Ntsoelengoe was one of the most iconic figures to the Kaizer Chiefs jersey in the 70s and 80s.
Adored by fans, his dazzling footwork and infectious joy for the game earned him right to be compared to other greatest players of his generation. Ntsoelengoe’s technical prowess made him a midfield maestro, and in 2010, he was rightfully voted the greatest player to ever wear the Amakhosi colours.
Tragically, this South African legend passed away in 2006 at the age of 54, leaving behind a legacy of brilliance and inspiration.
Information about his net worth is yet to be disclosed.
4. Doctor Khumalo
Doctor Khumalo etched his name in Kaizer Chiefs history, holding the record for most starts with the club at a staggering 397 appearances. A midfield maestro, his exceptional passing and ball control dictated the flow of the game, leaving defenders bewildered.
Doctor Khumalo wasn’t just a regular at Kaizer Chiefs, he was there for a record-breaking number of games, He wasn’t just a fancy passer either, Khumalo actually scored a lot of goals himself – 207 to be exact.
His talent wasn’t limited to his club, he even played for South Africa 50 times, scoring 9 goals for his country. All this playing makes him one of the most experienced South African soccer players ever, ranking 13th in total games played for the national team.
As a player and coach, he built a net worth estimated around $5 million as of 2024. Not bad for a guy who knew how to handle a ball.
5. Lucas Radebe
Lucas Radebe, a legend for Kaizer Chiefs, wasn’t always a central defender.
He actually started as a goalie and even saved penalties, But his true calling was at the back, where he anchored a golden era for Chiefs in the early 90s.
His talent wasn’t limited to South Africa; Radebe became a star in England’s Premier League, leading Leeds United to a historic Champions League run in 2000-2001 season where they reached a semi final.
His Net worth is reportedly to be in the region of $13 million, a testimony to his fantastic footballing career that earned him so much money from salary and bonuses.
6. Itulumeng Khune
Loyal and legendary, Itumeleng Khune has spent his entire career with Kaizer Chiefs, becoming a symbol of their recent triumphs.
Imagine a Kaizer Chiefs fan – Itumeleng Khune! But instead of cheering from the stands, Khune became the star on the pitch. A loyal one-club man, he’s guarded the Kaizer Chiefs goal for his entire career, leading kaizer Chiefs to many victories.
Khune’s not just any keeper; he’s considered one of Africa’s finest! His rise to fame began with a legendary penalty shootout save in 2007.
But that’s not all, Khune even shocked the world with a gravity-defying scorpion kick save in 2015, proving he’s more than just a top goalie, he’s a highlight reel waiting to happen.
Keeping the net clean on the field translates to financial success for Itumeleng Khune as well. His dedication to the Kaizer Chiefs has seen him accumulate an estimated net worth of around $4 million, which is roughly R61.7 million in South African Rand.
7. John “Shoes” Moshoeu
Nicknamed “Shoes” for his fancy footwork, John “Shoes” Moshoeu was a magician for Kaizer Chiefs. Despite his dazzling skills and pace, he mastered the art of simplicity on the field.
His intelligence and maturity were admired by all, including coach Clive Barker, who famously yelled from the sidelines, “Shoes! Dance!” .
Sadly, this legend passed away in 2015, but his memory lives on in the hearts of Kaizer Chiefs fans.
Data about his Net worth are yet to be disclosed but It is with a big optimism that he made a huge sum during his playing career.
8. Johannes “Ryder” Mofokeng
Ryder Mofokeng wasn’t just a Kaizer Chiefs defender, he was a champion. He started young, part of the team that stormed to the club’s first league title in 1974 with a nearly unbeatable record.
Years later, as captain, he led the Chiefs on a historic run under coach Joe Frickleton, achieving the unthinkable – a quadruple, winning every major trophy that season.
Mofokeng’s leadership and defensive skill solidified his place as a legend in Kaizer Chiefs’ most glorious chapter.
Sadly, He died on January 2, 2021.
9. Neil Tovey
Not only did Neil Tovey witness South Africa’s historic shift to democracy in 1994, but he was also a legend on the field for the Kaizer Chiefs.
In fact, he holds the record for the most games ever played in the National Soccer League, proving his dedication and talent as a true football icon.
There are no clear information about his Net worth.
10. Nelson “Teenage: Dladla
Nelson “Teenage” Dladla wasn’t just a gifted Kaizer Chiefs player, he had the presence to match.
His youthful appearance, complete with a mischievous grin and sparkling eyes, earned him the nickname “Teenage.” This playful demeanor, along with his slender build, likely misled defenders.
But beneath the surface lurked a ruthless footballer with incredible skill. Dladla’s clinical playing style tore opponents apart, making him a legend and a top contender for the title of greatest Kaizer Chiefs player ever.
While the likes of “Teenage” Dladla, kaizer Motaung, Lucas Radebe, Doctor Khumalo and his fellow greats leave an undeniable mark, picking a single absolute best is a tough call.
Kaizer Chiefs’ rich history boasts a collection of phenomenal talents, each bringing their own magic to the pitch. Ultimately, their collective brilliance and dedication have cemented the club’s legendary status in South African football.