Chippa United snap up rising star Bandile Dlamini from Royal AM
The Eastern Cape outfit has officially secured the signature of one of the country's brightest young prospects: electric winger Bandile Dlamini, who arrives from Royal AM with a point to prove and a hunger for goals.
Nicknamed the Chilli Boys, Chippa are clearly not just warming up for the 2025/26 Betway Premiership - -they're coming in hot. Their ambitious rebuild is taking shape, with bold decisions at the helm and dynamic talent on the pitch. Leading the charge is newly appointed head coach Sinethemba Badela, a tactician with elite pedigree thanks to recent stints at Mamelodi Sundowns and Moroccan giants Wydad Casablanca.
Joining Badela in reshaping the club's identity is Sinesipho Mali, the former Sekhukhune United head of analysis and scouting. Mali steps in as sporting director, replacing Morgan Mammila and bringing a data-driven edge to Chippa's recruitment strategy.
At the center of this youth-focused project is 21-year-old Dlamini - a winger known for his flair, pace, and eye for goal. During his three-year spell at Royal AM, Dlamini lit up the DStv Diski Challenge, notching an impressive 22 goals and 17 assists over two seasons. His ability to change games from wide areas made him a standout performer, and Chippa have clearly seen something special.
"Chippa United is the perfect launchpad for young, ambitious players," said his agent Ntobatsi Masegela. "They've built a reputation for nurturing raw talent, and Bandile fits that mould perfectly. He's quick, skillful, and has a natural instinct for goal. This move aligns with his growth, especially under a coach like Badela who encourages expressive, attacking football."
Dlamini's journey to this moment has been nothing short of impressive. Back in 2021, he made waves at the KZN Engen Cup, where he bagged both the Player of the Tournament and Top Goal Scorer awards - finding the net 14 times in a single campaign with the Trouble Tigers.
Now, as he steps onto a bigger stage, the spotlight will follow.
With a fresh tactical mind, a bold front office, and a rising star in their ranks, Chippa United aren't just rebuilding - they're rebranding. And with Bandile Dlamini on board, the flanks at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium might just become the most dangerous place for defenders next season.