Kaizer Chiefs’ quest for a new head coach has been a saga since Molefi Ntseki’s departure in October 2023. The search, initially shrouded in secrecy, has seen twists, turns and a fair amount of fan frustration. Adding to the fan’s frustration is the club’s delay in releasing the names of players who won’t continue with them for the upcoming season.
Kaizer Chiefs Taking Stock and a Temporary Fix
Following Ntseki’s exit, the club opted for continuity, appointing academy head Cavin Johnson as interim coach. While Johnson’s role was meant to see out the 2023/24 season, Chiefs’ 10th-place finish and their worst-ever performance, highlighted the need for a permanent solution.
The Search Begins: Local or International?
Sporting director Kaizer Motaung Jr. confirmed a new technical team was on the cards in April 2024. Rumors swirled about potential candidates, with a mix of local and international names thrown into the ring. Local favorites included Johnson himself, Arthur Zwane, and the recently departed Gavin Hunt. Internationally, reports suggested a renewed interest in Pitso Mosimane alongside unnamed European and South American coaches.
Nabi Emerges as Frontrunner
News broke that Tunisian coach Nasreddine Nabi had become the frontrunner. A “serial winner” with Young Africans in Tanzania, Nabi’s experience and success in Africa made him an attractive option. Negotiations reportedly took place, with the wait for his current club’s (AS FAR) season to conclude adding to the suspense. The Soweto giants are now willing to pay compensation to AS FAR because Nabi remains contracted until June 2025.
A New Era at Naturena?
With the season over, all signs point towards Nabi’s appointment being imminent. This would mark a significant shift for Kaizer Chiefs, with a North African coach at the helm for the first time. While some fans remain divided, the club seems confident that Nabi is the man to lead them back to glory.
The Final Whistle
The official announcement of the new coach is yet to be made. However, the saga appears to be nearing its conclusion. Whether Nabi or another candidate takes the reins, the pressure will be on to deliver the success that the Amakhosi faithful crave.
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