Nigerian striker Etiosa Ighodaro has been backed to enjoy a breakthrough campaign at Kaizer Chiefs after an injury-hit debut season with the 13-time South African Champions, Soccernet.ng reports.
The 25-year-old joined the Glamour Boys amid huge expectations last year but endured a frustrating first season at Naturena, with recurring injury problems restricting him to just seven appearances across all competitions.
Ighodaro did not feature at all during the 2026 calendar year, leading many supporters to forget about the Nigerian forward's presence in the squad.
However, the former Chippa United and AmaZulu striker has started pre-season strongly under new manager Fernando Da Cruz, offering fresh hope that he could finally fulfil his potential at the Soweto giants.
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The Nigerian striker was among Kaizer Chiefs' standout performers during their 1-1 draw against Scottish side Rangers in Spain, finding the back of the net with a clinical finish after connecting with Asanele Velebayi's delivery.
Morgan Gould backs Etiosa Ighodaro to shine for Kaizer Chiefs
Former Kaizer Chiefs defender Morgan Gould believes the Nigerian is now ready to become a key figure for Amakhosi.
Speaking on Kaizer Chiefs Radio, as per Goal, the club legend insisted the difficult experiences of last season could ultimately prove beneficial for Ighodaro.
“He's going to be huge for Kaizer Chiefs this season,” Gould said.
“He's gonna come through this season big time because he now has been through the blessing and the curse.
“Now he needs to come with the blessing, here lies an opportunity for him.”
The former South Africa international also suggested that a player's second season often determines whether they truly belong at a club of Chiefs' stature.
“Because you know in the first season you need lady luck and in the second season that's when you really come out and show why you are the one to get the contract.
“I've seen him over the years, he's familiar with the PSL, now it's time for him to say, ‘I've arrived',” the 43-year-old concluded.
Big opportunity for the Super Eagles hopeful
Kaizer Chiefs have been relatively quiet in the transfer market this summer, bringing in only defender Thabo Moloisane and goalkeeper Renaldo Leaner.
Meanwhile, several first-team players, including Tashreeq Morris, George Matlou, Happy Mashiane and Gaston Sirino, have departed the club.
Those exits could hand Ighodaro a major opportunity to establish himself as one of Chiefs' leading attacking options heading into the new campaign.
The 25-year-old also knows that regular football could revive his hopes of earning a maiden senior Super Eagles call-up under Eric Chelle.
More pre-season opportunities await
Kaizer Chiefs continue their preparations in Spain and are scheduled to face Saudi Pro League side Al Kholood before concluding their European tour against La Liga outfit Elche on Saturday.
Those fixtures could provide Ighodaro with further opportunities to impress Da Cruz and build momentum ahead of the new Betway Premiership season.
If the Nigerian can stay fit, his return from injury may feel like a new signing for the Glamour Boys.
After a season largely spent on the sidelines, the upcoming campaign could finally be the one where Etiosa Ighodaro announces his arrival at Kaizer Chiefs.
