Comment by Smiso Msomi
Kaizer Chiefs’ new head honcho Nasreddine Nabi has been involved with his new group for about a month, and with extensive knowledge of the challenges and demands ahead of him.
Amakhosi touched down at OR Tambo International Airport on Wednesday evening oozing positivity and cheerfulness after a demanding but refreshing pre-season tour to Türkiye.
They were met by a section of the club’s supporters, who demanded pictures with their new ‘messiah’, whose work at previous clubs has elevated expectations of his potential influence at the club.
However, having been to Tanzania and Morocco in the past three years, the 58-year-old will know that the key to his potential success story at the Naturena base will be built on establishing a sustainable core.
Stuart Baxter’s 2015 league-winning side comprised the likes of Itumeleng Khune at the peak of his power behind the towering presence of Eric Mathoho and Tefu Mashamaite, while Reneilwe Letsholonyane and Siphiwe Tshabalala ran the engine room alongside the energy of Mandla Masanga and George Lebese.
Ten years before that, the late Ted Dimitru had the likes of Rowen Fernandez, Cyril Nzama, Tinashe Nengomasha, Thabo Mooki, Emmanuel Ngobese and Collins Mbesuma combine their powers to bring home back-to-back league titles between 2003 and 2005.
Introducing the 2024/25 Kaizer Chiefs x @kappa_sa Jersey! #AlwaysHome #Amakhosi4Life
— Kaizer Chiefs (@KaizerChiefs) July 25, 2024
Fast forward to 2024, it is the Tunisian’s turn at the helm as he tries to end the club’s nine-year wait for a trophy and inscribe his name in the history books of one of the most successful clubs on the continent.
The Tunisian has already begun his work on his ‘spine’ by having the club land a goalkeeper and two defenders, attending to a desperate defensive situation after the club conceded 30 goals in 30 league outings last season.
With the future of Khune still up in the air at Amakhosi and Brandon Peterson and Bruce Bvuma failing to prove reliable, Chiefs have captured the signature of Rwandan international shot-stopper Fiacre Ntwari.
That signing was followed by the arrival of 22-year-old Rushwin Dortley after an excellent season at centre-back for Cape Town Spurs and most recently the national team.
Dortley will either battle or partner with the likes of Zitha Kwinika, Given Msimango, Edmilson Dove and Thatayaone Ditlhokwe for a place in Nabi’s most trusted starting XI.
The wait is over, Khosi family! 🖤💛
— Kaizer Chiefs (@KaizerChiefs) July 25, 2024
We are thrilled to unveil our new Kaizer Chiefs x @kappa_sa Jersey for the upcoming 2024/25 season! This jersey is a tribute to our rich heritage and a symbol of our future victories.#AlwaysHome #Amakhosi4Life pic.twitter.com/XM2p2s8Kok
Bongani Sam has also made the move from Soweto rivals Orlando Pirates to fill the gap left by Sifiso Hlanti.
It is interesting to note that a week before domestic action resumes, Chiefs are yet to make a midfield addition, raising suggestions that Nabi might feel the likes of Yusuf Maart, Edson Castillo and Ox Mthethwa might possess the necessary qualities for his philosophy.
As expected, Amakhosi have been knocking on several doors looking for young and mature players with firepower and trickery, with the likes of Asanele Velebayi of Spurs and Polokwane City’s Oswin Appollis also linked.
Any core formed at the base of Nabi’s side is expected to address the club’s lack of cutting edge and nous up front, as the Tunisian coach is known for his liking for fast-paced football.