Every new PSL season has its defining players. Some arrive carrying the weight of expectation after a big-money move. Others are tasked with replacing club legends, while a handful of young stars are ready to announce themselves on South African football’s biggest stage.
ALSO READ: Can Orlando Pirates Defend Their PSL Title?
With Orlando Pirates beginning the campaign as defending champions, Mamelodi Sundowns determined to reclaim the title and Kaizer Chiefs looking to continue their resurgence, individual brilliance could once again prove the difference between success and disappointment.
Rather than simply ranking the league’s biggest names, these are the 10 players whose performances could have the greatest influence on how the 2026/27 season unfolds.
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Oswin Appollis – The New Main Man
No player enters the season under more scrutiny than Oswin Appollis.
The reigning Midfielder of the Season now carries the responsibility of leading Orlando Pirates’ attack following Relebohile Mofokeng’s move to Europe. His first season in black and white could hardly have gone better, helping the Buccaneers end Mamelodi Sundowns’ dominance and earning individual recognition at the PSL Awards.
This season feels different, though.
Opponents will now identify Appollis as Pirates’ biggest attacking threat. Whether drifting inside from wide areas or creating chances between the lines, his creativity will be central to the champions’ hopes of defending their title.
Siyanda Ndlovu – Sundowns’ Next Big Star?
Replacing experienced players at Mamelodi Sundowns is never straightforward, but few new arrivals have generated as much excitement as Siyanda Ndlovu.
The attacker earned his move after an impressive campaign with Golden Arrows, where his pace, confidence and ability to attack defenders caught the attention of South Africa’s biggest clubs. Sundowns won the race for his signature, believing he has the qualities to become one of the league’s next elite attacking players.
Breaking into Sundowns’ starting XI is notoriously difficult. If Ndlovu establishes himself quickly, it will say everything about his ability.
Glody Lilepo – Chiefs’ X Factor
Kaizer Chiefs have lacked consistent match winners in recent seasons, and Glody Lilepo has the talent to change that.
The Congolese international combines power, pace and technical quality, making him one of the league’s most dangerous forwards when fully confident. Chiefs supporters have already seen flashes of his quality. The challenge now is producing those performances every week.
If Chiefs are serious about returning to the title conversation, Lilepo has to become one of the league’s most decisive attackers.
Adolf Mtasingwa Bitegeko – The Midfield General
Not every signing grabs headlines. Sometimes the smartest additions are the ones that bring balance.
Chiefs hope Adolf Mtasingwa Bitegeko will do exactly that after arriving from Azam FC. The Tanzanian midfielder has built a reputation as a disciplined ball winner capable of protecting the defence while allowing attacking players greater freedom higher up the pitch.
If he settles quickly, Chiefs could finally have the midfield platform they have lacked in recent campaigns.
Arthur Sales – Time To Deliver
Arthur Sales arrived at Sundowns carrying enormous expectations. Now comes the season where he needs to justify them.
The Brazilian possesses all the attributes of a modern striker: intelligent movement, physical presence and clinical finishing. With another preseason behind him and a better understanding of South African football, there is every reason to believe supporters will see the best version of Sales this year.
A prolific campaign could make him one of the signings of the season.
Samkelo Mahlambi – The Difference Maker
Few players divide opinion quite like TS Galaxy’s Samkelo Mahlambi.
On his day, he is capable of producing moments that very few players in the league can replicate. Injuries and inconsistency have prevented him from fulfilling his enormous potential, but the quality has never been questioned.
If he can put together a sustained run of performances, Mahlambi could become one of the biggest stories of the campaign.
Ethan Chislett – Chiefs’ Creative Spark
Kaizer Chiefs have looked to Ethan Chislett to add composure and creativity to their midfield.
After returning to South Africa following a successful spell in England, Chislett brings experience, intelligence and an eye for goal from midfield. The technical midfielder is expected to play a major role in helping Chiefs control matches against the league’s stronger sides.
His influence may not always appear on the scoresheet, but Chiefs will need him dictating the tempo if they are to climb the table.
Langelihle Phili – The Breakout Star
Every season produces a player who goes from promising youngster to household name. Langelihle Phili could be that player.
The Stellenbosch winger, who’s linked with a move to Kaizer Chiefs, impressed throughout last season with his relentless pressing, direct running and technical quality. Unsurprisingly, bigger clubs have already begun monitoring his progress.
Another strong campaign may not only elevate Stellenbosch but also earn Phili an even bigger move.
Siyabonga Mabena – South Africa’s Future
At just 19 years old, Mamelodi Sundowns’ Siyabonga Mabena remains one of the country’s brightest prospects.
His explosive pace and fearless attacking style have already earned comparisons with some of South Africa’s finest young talents. Opportunities may still need to be managed carefully, but whenever Mabena takes to the field, supporters expect excitement.
This could be the season he evolves from exciting youngster into genuine star.
Patrick Maswanganyi – The Man Who Must Deliver
If Orlando Pirates are to retain the PSL trophy, Patrick Maswanganyi will almost certainly have a huge say.
With Mofokeng gone, “Tito” becomes the creative heartbeat of the champions. His vision, close control and ability to unlock stubborn defences make him one of the league’s finest playmakers, but this season demands even greater consistency.
The very best players embrace responsibility. Maswanganyi now has the perfect opportunity to prove he belongs among the elite.
The Stories That Will Shape The Season
The beauty of every new PSL season is its unpredictability.
Perhaps Oswin Appollis establishes himself as the league’s outstanding player. Maybe Siyanda Ndlovu becomes Sundowns’ next superstar, or Glody Lilepo inspires Kaizer Chiefs back into title contention. Arthur Sales could explode into life, while youngsters like Siyabonga Mabena and Langelihle Phili may announce themselves on the biggest stage.
One thing is certain: when the final whistle blows on the 2026/27 campaign, the league’s defining moments are likely to have featured more than a few names on this list.
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