Shabalala Trades Nike for PUMA Ahead of Chiefs' New Season
Mduduzi Shabalala has a new boot deal, and it comes loaded with symbolism. The Kaizer Chiefs and Bafana Bafana midfielder has signed with PUMA South Africa, ending his run with Nike and stepping into the campaign for the brand's new Ultra 7 football boot.
He joins a PUMA roster that already includes Teboho Mokoena, Themba Zwane, Iqraam Rayners, Bathusi Aubaas, Malibongwe Khoza, Patrick Maswanganyi, Thapelo Morena, Sailor Mudau and fellow Chiefs teammate Mfundo Vilakazi.
PUMA SA's Tshepo Mashishi framed the signing as a long-term bet on Shabalala's ceiling. "Mdu's performances last season were impressive, and we believe that we are signing a player that will be at the forefront of SA football for many years to come, and who will drive on-pitch visibility of our ULTRA football boots," Mashishi said, adding that he sees Shabalala as a potential figure for South Africa's 2030 World Cup push.
For his part, Shabalala pointed to shared values as the deciding factor. "My decision was based on how well PUMA's values, vision, and commitment to athletes align with my own goals and journey as a footballer," he said.
The deal arrives at an awkward moment physically. Shabalala broke his arm against Mamelodi Sundowns in May, an injury that ended his season early and forced him to sit out Chiefs' pre-season trip to Spain. He'll debut the new boots once fit, with Chiefs opening their 2026/27 Betway Premiership campaign away to newly promoted Kruger United at Mbombela Stadium on 1 August.
