With the rumoured departure of head coach Nasreddine Nabi, Kaizer Chiefs may be on the hunt for a new head coach just days before their crucial CAF Confederation Cup clash.
According to reports from SABC Sport, the primary reason for the split was Nabi’s lack of a CAF Pro License, which would have prevented him from coaching from the bench in continental competitions.
This unexpected development leaves the club in a precarious position as they prepare to face Kabuscorp on Saturday at Estádio 11 de Novembro.
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The timing raises urgent questions about who will guide the team from the touchline in this key fixture and beyond.
With speculation swirling around several high-profile candidates, SBN brings you three leading options to take the reins at Naturena.
The Co-Coaching Route: Assistants Khalil Ben Youssef and Cedric Kaze
Kaizer Chiefs may opt for a smooth transition by promoting from within. Nabi’s assistants, Khalil Ben Youssef and Cedric Kaze, are strong contenders. The pair has already earned the trust of the club and the fans, having stepped in to lead the team to three consecutive wins during Nabi’s recent compassionate leave.
Khalil Ben Youssef has extensive coaching experience in East Africa and worked closely with Nabi on strategy and player development.
Cedric Kaze is also credited with the team’s recent successes and has been praised for his leadership and tactical input, with some fans even suggesting the team performed better under his temporary guidance.
An internal promotion would offer continuity and stability, allowing the team to maintain its current system with minimal disruption.
The Continental Champion: Pitso Mosimane
One name that is constantly linked with Kaizer Chiefs is world renowned South African football tactician Pitso Mosimane. The most decorated coach in African football history, Mosimane is currently unattached after recently leaving Esteghlal FC in Iran. His track record of success is unparalleled, with multiple league and CAF Champions League titles with both Mamelodi Sundowns and Al Ahly.
Mosimane is renowned for his tactical acumen and his ability to build winning teams and secure continental silverware. His appointment would be a monumental statement of intent from Kaizer Chiefs, instantly making them a formidable force in Africa.
The Spanish Successor: Jose Riveiro
Another intriguing option is Jose Riveiro, the former Orlando Pirates head coach. Riveiro is a familiar face in the PSL and has a proven track record of cup success, having won five of six finals with the Buccaneers, including the MTN8 and Nedbank Cup.
Although he was recently sacked by Al Ahly, Riveiro’s tactical discipline and familiarity with South African football make him a strong candidate. His ability to deliver trophies in the local arena could be exactly what Kaizer Chiefs need to end their long trophy drought.