Cape Town City FC have cut ties with midfielder Keagan Dolly as part of their post-promotion clear-out. The 30-year-old is now weighing up his next career move after his release from the Mother City side.
What happened at Cape Town City FC?
City released five players on July 15, 2026, including Dolly, Njabulo Ngcobo, Dzenan Zajmovic, Sifiso Ngobeni and Siphamandla Dondolo. The club’s season ended in frustration after they finished bottom of the 2025/26 Motsepe Foundation Championship mini-log, missing out on promotion to the Betway Premiership despite reaching the play-offs.
Dolly joined City in 2025 from TS Galaxy after his contract expired at the end of the 2024/25 campaign. His stint in the second tier didn’t revive his career as hoped, and he’s now weighing options in the Western Cape.
Why Dolly’s next step matters
Dolly’s CV still carries weight in South African football. The former Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns playmaker remains a Bafana Bafana regular, and his experience could help a side pushing for top-flight football. His arrival would give any ambitious club an instant upgrade in midfield.
City’s clear-out reflects their own shift after failing to secure promotion. The Citizens now face a rebuild as they aim to return to the Betway Premiership in 2027/28.
Hope FC emerge as potential suitors
Hope FC, promoted to the Motsepe Foundation Championship in June 2026, are the early favourites to land Dolly’s signature. The Immortals, co-owned by former Chiefs and Durban City midfielder Keagan Buchanan, are building a squad with PSL experience ahead of the 2026/27 season.
Veteran defender Lyle Lakay has already joined Hope FC’s pre-season training after his contract was not renewed by Siwelele in the Betway Premiership. The Western Cape side also added PSL hands like Craig Martin, Ruzaigh Gamildien and Clayton Daniels, who doubles up as assistant coach.
What comes next for Dolly?
A move to Hope FC would keep the midfielder in Cape Town while targeting top-flight football. The Immortals kick off their Motsepe Foundation Championship campaign in August 2026, and Dolly’s signature would signal their intent to challenge for promotion.
Dolly’s camp is in talks with multiple clubs, but the lure of staying in the Mother City and joining a project with clear ambition could sway his decision. If he signs, he’d line up alongside Lakay and the experienced core already assembled by Hope FC’s coaching staff.
