Magosi on a Shopping Spree
Mochudi Centre Chiefs, affectionately known as Magosi, have set the transfer market ablaze with a flurry of high-profile signings ahead of the new football season, signaling clear intent to re-establish themselves among Botswana’s elite.
Fresh from a solid campaign that saw them narrowly miss out on a top-four finish, the Kgatleng giants have wasted no time strengthening their squad, unveiling over a dozen new signings in what many are calling a major squad overhaul.
Leading the pack is none other than Gilbert “Sghilo” Baruti, one of Botswana’s most decorated midfielders, who makes a surprise switch from Jwaneng Galaxy FC to the black-and-white camp. Baruti, known for his flair, vision, and calm authority in the midfield, has penned a three-year deal and is expected to anchor Magosi’s engine room as the club looks to mount a serious challenge for silverware.
This is one of the most surprising developments in the current transfer window and to some it’s a statement of intent from the Kgatleng giants. Baruti brings championship pedigree and leadership to Magosi camp.
Joining Baruti are 14 new faces, each bringing a unique flair to different departments of the squad. In goal, the club has reinforced with Kabelo Maphakela and Tshenolo Letshelea, both of whom boast top-flight experience. Maphakela is dubbed, “the new wall between the sticks” while Letshelea brings composure and leadership from his stint at Notwane.
The midfield has been turbocharged with the arrivals of Tshepo Malgas (Orapa United), Kagiso Arnold Fane, a rising 19-year-old talent and Zimbabwean import Edson Tafadzwa Gavara from MWOS FC, who is expected to add steel and balance to the centre of the park.
Up front, Magosi have added firepower with the signing of Comoros international striker, Ibroihim Youssouf from Namibia’s African Stars, Morupule Wanderers’ forward, Kitso Mpuisang, and the electric and experienced, Hendrick Moyo from Mmakanke Rockmasters. These forwards are expected to sharpen Chiefs’ attack which lacked consistency last season.
In defence, the club welcomed Shanganani “Sporo” Ngada from Tafic FC, a no-nonsense defender whose presence will bring much-needed resilience to the backline.
The rebuild doesn’t stop there. Kgotso Phuthi, Thabang Selebogo, and Theo Shadikong have also joined the Magosi family on two-year contracts, all as players hungry to prove themselves and bring success to Kgatleng.
Despite the influx of new talent, the club has also seen an exodus, releasing over 15 players to make room for the new signings. Most notable is the departure of club legend, Dirang Moloi, who retired last season. Other outgoing names include Kennedy Amutenya, Pako Gaofose, Kumoetsile Kufigwa, Bogosi Nfila, Thabo Wetshoemang, and Happy Pilane.
Sources close to the club suggest that this aggressive recruitment drive is part of a long-term vision to return to continental football and restore the club’s former glory.