Kaizer Chiefs Injury News: Khanyisa Mayo Set to Miss Start of 2026/27 Season After Hernia Surgery
Kaizer Chiefs will begin the 2026/27 season without one of their attacking options after striker Khanyisa Mayo underwent surgery, leaving the club facing an early setback before a competitive ball has even been kicked.
The 27 year old forward is expected to miss the opening weeks of the campaign as he continues his recovery from a hernia operation, raising fresh questions about Chiefs’ attacking depth ahead of a demanding start to the season.
Mayo reportedly underwent surgery shortly after the conclusion of the 2025/26 campaign and did not travel with the Amakhosi squad to Spain for their pre season training camp under newly appointed head coach Fernando Da Cruz.
His absence comes at a crucial stage as Da Cruz works to implement his ideas and prepare the squad for the challenges that lie ahead.
The striker enjoyed flashes of promise during Chiefs’ impressive 2025/26 season, which ended with the club securing a third place finish in the Betway Premiership. However, injuries prevented him from building consistent momentum.
Mayo made 15 appearances across all competitions and scored two goals. His limited impact was largely influenced by fitness setbacks and the challenge of readjusting to life in the Premier Soccer League following his spell abroad.
The former Cape Town City striker initially arrived at Naturena on loan from Algerian side CR Belouizdad in September last year. Chiefs later activated the option to make his move permanent, signalling their belief in his long term value.
Instead of preparing for what was expected to be his first full campaign as a permanent Amakhosi player, Mayo now finds himself focused on rehabilitation.
According to SABC Sport, the striker is only expected to resume full training within the next two months. That timeline makes him a major doubt for Chiefs’ MTN8 opener against Golden Arrows and the opening rounds of the Betway Premiership.
The setback is an unfortunate twist for both player and club, especially as Da Cruz begins a new era at Chiefs with supporters eager to see the team build on last season’s progress.
Mayo is targeting a return in September, potentially after the FIFA international break, when he hopes to force his way back into contention and establish himself as a key figure under the new coach.
Until then, Chiefs will have to navigate the early stages of the season without one of their recognised attacking options, while Mayo focuses on regaining full fitness and reigniting his career in the famous gold and black jersey.
