Chiefs parts ways with head coach. Image: Kaizer Chiefs shared via X.
(The Post News)– Kaizer Chiefs officially parted ways with head coach Nasreddine Nabi on Wednesday, barely a season into his tenure, leaving the club without a coach. The decision comes amid issues surrounding his CAF qualifications, which would have prevented him from sitting on the bench for any continental fixtures, as well as growing tension between the Tunisian mentor and club management.
The club has not yet announced a permanent replacement, but speculations indicate that assistant coaches Cedric Kaze and Khalil Ben Youssef are likely to step in on an interim basis. Both have experience guiding the squad in Nabi’s absence. During the start of the 2025–26 season, Chiefs won three consecutive matches under their leadership while Nabi was away for personal reasons.
“The assistants managed the squad with great discipline and focus during the opening fixtures. They maintained training standards and ensured results on the pitch,” said Kaizer Chiefs fan Kutullo Morero, amplifying that the assistants did great while Nabi was on a family leave.
Chiefs Known for Changing Coaches Rapidly
This situation is all too familiar for the Amakhoai fans. In recent years, coaching changes have often been reactionary, leaving the club with temporary fixes rather than long-term solutions. However, the interim period under the assistants may provide stability while the board searches for a permanent head coach.
Although the assistants performed admirably in a short spell, challenges remain. Coaching is more than tactics. It involves player management, long-term planning, and maintaining cohesion throughout the season. The board must decide whether to give the assistants full responsibility or bring in a fully qualified coach to lead the squad, particularly for continental competitions.
Despite the turbulence, the Chiefs’ squad has shown resilience. Fans have expressed cautious optimism, noting the assistants’ strong record during Nabi’s absence. Others remain frustrated by what they see as ongoing instability in the club’s leadership.
The Chiefs’ next matches will be crucial in setting the tone for the rest of the season. How the team responds under interim leadership could influence the board’s decision on a permanent appointment and determine whether the club can regain its footing in both domestic and continental competitions.
Chiefs is set to start the CAF Confederation on September 20, locking horns with Kabuscorp Palanca as their CAF opening game. The match will be hosted by Palanca at 11 de Novembro Stadium in Angola, and the second leg will be at Chiefs’ home in South Africa, FNB Stadium.
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