As Kaizer Chiefs gear up for a new season, speculation has surfaced regarding former head coach Arthur Zwane’s potential return to the technical team, working alongside new coach Nasreddine Nabi.
Zwane, once a key figure on the field for the club, transitioned into the head coach role during the 2022/23 season.
However, following an underwhelming performance, he was reassigned, serving briefly as assistant coach to Molefi Ntseki, who also had a short tenure.
A New Direction for Kaizer Chiefs
Now, with Zwane overseeing the club’s development structures, Chiefs have turned to Tunisian coach Nasreddine Nabi to lead the team.
Nabi, along with his newly assembled technical staff, has made his mark, but none of his assistants hail from South Africa.
Fernando Da Cruz, one of his assistants, left after just three months, fueling rumors that Zwane, often referred to by his nickname ‘10111,’ could step in to fill the gap.
Sporting Director Responds to Rumors
Kaizer Chiefs’ sporting director, Kaizer Motaung Jr, addressed the swirling rumors in an interview, dismissing the idea that Zwane would return to the senior team in any capacity.
“When things are said on social media, it can quickly spiral out of control and create unnecessary distractions for the team,” he explained on Radio 947.
Motaung Jr emphasized that Zwane remains committed to his current role as Senior Academy Coach, focusing on the development of young talent for the club.
Calls for Local Representation on Nabi’s Bench
Some within the football community, including former Kaizer Chiefs defender Dominic Isaacs, have voiced concerns about the lack of local representation on Nabi’s coaching staff.
Isaacs pointed out that having a coach with deep roots in the club could benefit Chiefs in the long term.
Drawing parallels with the past, Isaacs referenced how Pitso Mosimane learned under the guidance of Brazilian coach Carlos Alberto Parreira.
Isaacs speculated that perhaps Chiefs are fostering this kind of mentorship with David Mathebula, who is currently involved in the development structures, but noted that no official plans have been confirmed.
What’s Next for Chiefs?
Nabi’s first test as head coach is just around the corner.
The Soweto giants will take on Marumo Gallants this weekend in a league match at the Free State Stadium.
All eyes will be on the new coaching team as they navigate the pressures of leading one of South Africa’s most storied football clubs.
Will this new leadership bring a fresh start for the Chiefs? Only time will tell.
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