‘I wish Nasreddine Nabi had more time’ – Itumeleng Khune on Kaizer Chiefs’ coaching shake-up
Nabi deserved more time: Former Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune would have liked to see more time afforded to Nasreddine Nabi, who helped the club brea a 10-year trophy drought. Photo: Itumeleng English/Independent Newspapers
Image: Itumeleng English/Independent Newspapers
Kaizer Chiefs legend Itumeleng Khune has revealed his disappointment with the club’s decision to part ways with head coach Nasreddine Nabi, who helped the club break a 10-year trophy drought.
Chiefs are yet to announce Nabi’s departure, but the Tunisian has confirmed to North African media outlets that he is no longer with the club. He has also not been on the touchline for their last two games.
Khune, who left the club two seasons ago after two decades, revealed he had high hopes after last season’s Nedbank Cup win and was keen to watch the club grow under Nabi.
“I wish they could have given him more time because you can see he was building a well-oiled machine, so it’s just unfortunate that things didn’t go well for him,” the 38-year-old, who technically still hasn’t retired as a footballer, was quoted by SoccerLaduma.
Get your news on the go. Download the latest IOL App or Android and IOS now
“It’s just an unfortunate situation. I would have loved to see him continue with the club, but again, Kaizer Chiefs are in business. Players and coaches know that they won’t be at the club forever, but it’s very important that when you are given an opportunity, you give it your all.
“And Coach Nabi did that. In his first season you won silverware and people will forever remember him for that,” said the Chiefs icon.
Amakhosi are now under the guidance of assistant coaches Cedric Kaze and Youssef Ben Khalil, and the club are still to win in the two games they have been in charge. This weekend, they take on Angolan outfit Kabuscorp SCP in the second leg of the CAF Confederation Cup preliminary round.
For Khune, Nabi’s departure is a reminder of the delicate balance between short-term results and long-term vision at a club of Chiefs’ stature. As the team prepares for a decisive continental clash, the legend’s words serve as a rallying cry – urging Amakhosi to rediscover the patience, stability, and ambition that once made them the pride of South African football.
IOL Sport