Kaizer Chiefs are once again standing at a crucial crossroads following the sudden departure of Nasreddine Nabi. His exit, coming so soon after ending the club’s decade-long trophy drought, has thrown the Glamour Boys back into familiar territory searching for yet another head coach to lead their revival.
Cedric Kaze and Youssef Ben Khalil, who were appointed as interim coaches after Nabi’s exit, are also expected to be relieved of their duties following the Carling Knockout defeat to Stellenbosch FC. Chiefs’ coaching carousel looks set to keep turning but this next appointment may be the most important in years.
A Club Under Pressure
Whoever steps into the Naturena hot seat will be taking on one of the toughest jobs in South African football. Chiefs fans have grown restless, demanding not just improved performances but tangible results trophies. The new coach will be judged not only on style and progress but on how quickly the team can close the gap on dominant rivals Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates.
Financial considerations will also shape this decision. The club must weigh whether to bring in a big-name winner with a hefty price tag or take a calculated risk on a younger coach with long-term potential.
Here’s a look at some of the names already linked with the job:
Pitso Mosimane: The Proven Winner
Pitso Mosimane is the fans’ dream choice. With an unmatched track record in the PSL and a decorated CV that includes CAF Champions League triumphs, Mosimane would immediately bring credibility and winning experience. He’s currently unattached and has previously admitted to growing up as a Chiefs supporter.
Steve Barker: The Quiet Achiever
For the past eight years, Steve Barker has steadily transformed Stellenbosch FC into one of the league’s most consistent and competitive teams. Under his leadership, Stellies have reached back-to-back MTN8 finals (2024 and 2025), built a strong youth development structure, and regularly punched above their weight. His ability to build winning teams on modest budgets could make him an appealing option for Chiefs.
Ernst Middendorp: The Familiar Face
Middendorp is no stranger to Naturena. The German tactician was at the helm the last time Chiefs came close to lifting the league title. His understanding of local football and pragmatic approach could make him a safe short-term option, though some may question whether he can deliver long-term stability.
Jose Riveiro: The Outsider
Jose Riveiro’s name remains in circulation despite his departure from Orlando Pirates. His success with the Buccaneers has earned him respect in local football circles. However, he previously stated he would not return to manage another South African club, making this a less likely but still intriguing possibility.
Benni McCarthy: The Ambitious Contender
Benni McCarthy has never hidden his desire to manage one of South Africa’s biggest clubs. Currently coaching Kenya’s national team, the former Bafana Bafana striker could be tempted by the chance to return home and lead Chiefs back to glory. His charisma, attacking philosophy, and winning mentality could bring fresh energy to Naturena.
The Wildcard: The Unexpected Name
History has shown that coaching searches can produce surprise appointments. Just this past off-season, Orlando Pirates stunned many by hiring Abdeslam Ouaddou after several other names were heavily linked. Chiefs could also go down a similar unpredictable path.
Cedric Kaze and Youssef Ben Khalil, currently in charge, are not expected to stay on. Their authority was publicly undermined during the recent Carling Knockout clash, and sources suggest they could be shown the door in the coming days.
A Defining Moment for Kaizer Chiefs
Kaizer Chiefs’ next coaching appointment will shape the club’s immediate and long-term future. After years of short-term fixes and managerial instability, the club faces a defining decision: go for proven experience or take a bold step toward a new vision.
Whoever gets the job won’t just be tasked with delivering silverware they’ll carry the weight of restoring Kaizer Chiefs’ identity as one of Africa’s elite clubs.
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