Another season, another trophyless campaign for Kaizer Chiefs. The once-mighty Glamour Boys of South African football find themselves drifting further from their former dominance. While they are still in contention for the Nedbank Cup, facing a formidable opponent in Mamelodi Sundowns makes their chances of silverware appear slim at best.
But how did Chiefs reach this point? How has a club that was once the gold standard of South African football—both in success and professionalism—become an ordinary side struggling to compete?
Poor Management and Questionable Decisions
Many attribute Chiefs’ decline to the decision of club founder and chairman, Kaizer Motaung, to entrust his children with key management roles. Bobby Motaung, in particular, has faced heavy criticism for his recruitment strategy, which often focused on free agents and players deemed surplus at other clubs rather than signing top-quality talent.
In response to fan dissatisfaction, Motaung Senior promoted his younger son, Kaizer Junior, to the role of sporting director, giving him full responsibility over football matters. However, this shift has not yielded significant improvement, with Chiefs continuing to struggle despite the change in leadership. Although the Motaung family insists that the chairman remains actively involved, the team no longer bears the mark of the passionate leader who once demanded excellence from his players.
The Decline in Playing Identity
In years past, wearing the famous black and gold jersey was a privilege reserved for the most talented footballers. However, recent times have seen the club lose its identity, as players who would not have met the club’s high standards in previous eras now find themselves donning the Chiefs colours.
A significant turning point in this decline was the hiring of German coach Ernst Middendorp, whose pragmatic and rigid playing style stripped the club of its signature flair. Though some argue he brought efficiency, he ultimately eroded the club’s soul. Even during their last league triumph under Stuart Baxter, Chiefs had already lost the stylish, attacking football that once defined them.
How Kaizer Chiefs Can Rebuild Itself?
If Chiefs are to return to their former glory, urgent changes must be made:
1. Strengthen the Technical Team with Experience
Kaizer Motaung needs to bring in experienced football minds to assist in decision-making. While the club remains a family business, the reality is that neither Bobby nor Kaizer Junior has the expertise to restore Chiefs to their peak. Former players who understand the club’s culture should be integrated into the technical team to ensure the club’s DNA is maintained.
2. Improve Player Recruitment
Chiefs must shift away from their over-reliance on free agents and bargain signings. The club needs to scout and acquire top-tier talent that aligns with their historical playing style rather than settling for players who are merely available.
3. Build a Stronger Local Influence
While Nasreddine Nabi is a highly regarded coach, he lacks a support structure that understands the nuances of South African football. Chiefs should appoint technical staff with deep knowledge of local football dynamics to help bridge the gap between the coach’s tactics and the players’ strengths.
4. Restore the Winning Mentality
The club must bring back the hunger and drive that once defined it. Chiefs’ management must demand excellence from players, ensuring that representing the club is viewed as an honour rather than a mere career opportunity.
A Complete Overhaul is Needed
Kaizer Chiefs are at a crossroads. Without decisive action, they risk further decline. However, by restructuring their leadership, refining their recruitment strategy, and restoring their identity, they can once again rise to the top of South African football. The question is: will the Motaung family take the necessary steps to bring Chiefs back to greatness?
Related article: Kaizer Chiefs’ Rebuild: Nabi Calls for Patience and Time
