Golden Arrows reportedly start squad overhaul ahead of new campaign

Abafana Bes'thende are looking to reshape their squad following the conclusion of the season, with several players now seemingly aware of their futures at the Durban-based outfit.

According to reports, Brandon Theron, Keenan Phillips, Sanele Shabalala, Gladwin Shitolo, Sazi Gumbi and Nduduzo Mhlongo are all set to part ways with the club.

Experienced midfielder Theron is among the notable names on the list. The 33-year-old joined Arrows in August 2023 on a free transfer after the relegation of Maritzburg United, now known as Durban City. He brought valuable experience to the squad but now appears set for a new challenge.

Defender Phillips is also expected to move on after spending two seasons with Arrows. He arrived at the club on a free transfer following the collapse of Moroka Swallows and went on to feature regularly during his time in Durban.

Goalkeeper Shabalala's stint at the club looks set to end after just one season. Having joined from Mamelodi Sundowns at the start of the recently concluded campaign, the shot-stopper struggled to break into the first team and did not make a single competitive appearance.

Shitolo is another high-profile departure. The midfielder enjoyed a lengthy association with Arrows, initially joining on loan from Orlando Pirates before making the move permanent in 2022. He went on to become a familiar figure in the squad and leaves after several years of service.

Mhlongo is also expected to exit after finding opportunities limited. Since joining the club in 2022, he managed 20 appearances across all competitions but was unable to establish himself as a regular starter.

Completing the list is Gumbi, whose time at Arrows appears to be coming to an end after five seasons with the club. The midfielder featured only once during the past campaign as game time became increasingly scarce.

The expected departures signal the beginning of what could be a busy transfer window for Golden Arrows as they seek to strengthen and refresh their squad ahead of the 2026/27 season.

Furthermore, the publication revealed that assistant coaches Kagiso Dikgacoi and Musa Bilankulu are headed for the exit door as part of an impending technical team shake-up.