Kaizer Chiefs head coach Nasreddine Nabi has emphasized that the club’s rebuilding process requires more time following their ninth defeat in 22 Betway Premiership matches. Chiefs fell 2-0 to relegation-threatened Richards Bay FC at King Zwelithini Stadium in Umlazi, a result that further highlighted the team’s struggle for consistency this season.
This latest defeat has only added to the frustration of fans, who have been eager to see tangible progress under Nabi’s leadership. While Chiefs have had some promising performances, their inability to maintain a winning streak has been a significant setback. The loss to Richards Bay FC was particularly disappointing, given that their opponents are battling relegation and were considered underdogs going into the fixture.
High Expectations and Challenges
Nabi and his technical team arrived at the club with high expectations at the start of the campaign. Many hoped that the Tunisian tactician would quickly bring a winning mentality and elevate Chiefs back to the top of South African football. However, inconsistent performances have posed a major challenge, with the team failing to build momentum.
Despite these struggles, Nabi remains confident in the club’s long-term vision and development plan. He believes that meaningful progress takes time and that a club of Kaizer Chiefs’ stature cannot be rebuilt overnight.
“We are currently in the process of rebuilding, and a club of Kaizer Chiefs’ stature cannot be restructured in just six or seven months. It requires more time,” said Nabi.
Clear Vision for the Future
The coach reassured fans that while results may not yet reflect their efforts, the technical team has a clear understanding of what is required to improve the squad.
“What matters is that we know exactly what we need and where to strengthen in order to develop a better team and club. Our stance remains the same regardless of the outcome of a single match. We are committed to the rebuilding phase and are aware of the necessary steps to enhance the squad.”
Nabi’s approach focuses not just on short-term results but on building a foundation for sustained success. He acknowledges that setbacks are part of the process but insists that his team is learning and improving with each game. The club’s management has also shown patience, understanding that consistent progress will take longer than a single season.
Addressing the Attacking Concerns
One of the key areas of concern for Chiefs has been their lack of attacking prowess. Addressing concerns about the team’s attack, Nabi clarified his previous remarks regarding the need for a proper number-9. He explained that his comments were about physicality and aerial presence rather than simply seeking a new striker.
“I never stated that we are looking for a new number-9. What I mentioned was that we lacked physicality and height in that position. The absence of players like Tashreeq Morris or Ranga Chivaviro may have played a role, and having them available could have been beneficial,” he explained.
Tactical Adjustments Needed
However, he admitted that a target man alone would not have resolved all of Chiefs’ issues in the match against Richards Bay. “A striker wouldn’t have automatically fixed our struggles today. We needed to be more clinical in the final third and take more shots against a deep defensive block. That was the key factor,” he added.
The game against Richards Bay FC exposed some of Chiefs’ tactical shortcomings, particularly in breaking down defensive teams. Nabi has acknowledged that his side must find alternative ways to create and convert chances, especially when facing teams that sit deep and defend in numbers.
Looking Ahead
As Kaizer Chiefs continue their campaign, Nabi and his technical team will be hoping for patience and support as they work towards their long-term vision for the club’s revival. The focus remains on gradual improvement, with the belief that results will eventually follow if the right structures are put in place.
For the fans, the wait for success continues. While there have been moments of promise, consistency remains elusive. However, Nabi’s words suggest that Chiefs are on the right path, even if progress is slower than many would like. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether his rebuilding project can turn the club’s fortunes around.
With more matches ahead, Chiefs will need to prove that they are capable of learning from their setbacks and turning potential into results. The challenge is immense, but Nabi remains steadfast in his belief that patience and perseverance will ultimately yield the desired success.
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