Kaizer Chiefs has confirmed that head coach Nasreddine Nabi is “currently not with the team”, breaking their silence on a matter that has been the subject of intense speculation. The departure leaves the Soweto giants without a coach as they navigate the current season.
Despite leading the team to a Nedbank Cup victory, the club’s first trophy in a decade, Nabi’s tenure was also marked by inconsistency, including a disappointing ninth-place finish in the Betway Premiership.
Now, as the “discussions” between the club and the coach negotiate the terms of his three-year contract settlement, the focus shifts to who will take over the reins. SBN brings you three potential candidates to fill the coaching vacancy at Naturena:
The Co-Coaching Route: Khalil Ben Youssef and Cedric Kaze
The immediate and logical solution for Kaizer Chiefs could be promoting from within. Assistant coaches Khalil Ben Youssef and Cedric Kaze have emerged as compelling candidates to take the reins, having already demonstrated their leadership by guiding the team to three consecutive wins during head coach Nabi’s recent compassionate leave.
- Khalil Ben Youssef brings a wealth of experience from across the African continent, having served alongside Nabi at both Young Africans and AS FAR Rabat. His familiarity with the club’s tactical framework and his rapport with the players position him as a natural fit.
- Cedric Kaze, meanwhile, has earned recognition not only for his role in the team’s recent success but also for his impressive track record in youth development. A former coach of the Burundi national team, Kaze has worked extensively with youth squads—U17, U20, and U23—and spent over two years nurturing talent within FC Barcelona’s youth academy.
An internal promotion would ensure continuity and stability, allowing the team to maintain its existing system with minimal disruption, a move that could be crucial as the club navigates its domestic and continental duties.
The Continental Champion: Pitso Mosimane
A name that is constantly linked with Kaizer Chiefs and would be a monumental appointment is South African football icon, Pitso Mosimane. The most decorated coach in African football history, Mosimane is currently unattached after recently leaving his post at Esteghlal FC in Iran. His track record of success is unparalleled, boasting multiple league titles and CAF Champions League victories with both Mamelodi Sundowns and Al Ahly.
Mosimane is renowned for his tactical acumen and his proven ability to build winning teams and secure continental silverware. His appointment would be a powerful statement of intent from Kaizer Chiefs, instantly making them a formidable force in Africa and a top contender for domestic honors.
The Spanish Successor: Jose Riveiro
Another intriguing option is Jose Riveiro, the former Orlando Pirates head coach. The Spanish tactician is a familiar face in the PSL and has a proven track record of cup success, having led the Buccaneers to five of six finals, including winning the MTN8 and Nedbank Cup.
Although ‘El Padre’ was recently sacked by Al Ahly, Riveiro’s tactical discipline and familiarity with the South African topflight make him a strong candidate. His ability to deliver trophies on the local scene whilst ushering in younger players could be exactly what Kaizer Chiefs needs to add further silverware and restore their winning culture.