Nabi Rejects Allegations of Lack of Local Knowledge

Kaizer Chiefs head coach Nasreddine Nabi has dismissed claims that the club’s difficulties are a result of having no South African members within his technical staff.

Nabi emphasized that upon his arrival at the club, he conducted an extensive evaluation of both the team and the league, asserting that donning the Kaizer Chiefs jersey automatically integrates one as a “Khosi,” aligning them with the South African football scene.

The Tunisian coach, who took up the role in the off-season, formed his own technical team, intentionally choosing not to include individuals with past experience in the PSL.

This choice has faced criticism, with some attributing the Chiefs’ erratic performance, including their 10th league loss to Golden Arrows at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday, to the absence of local knowledge.

In a contrasting move, Mamelodi Sundowns retained Steve Komphela as assistant coach and Kennedy Mweene as goalkeeper coach after the departure of Manqoba Mngqithi in December, who was succeeded by Miguel Cardoso.

Cardoso previously noted that keeping Komphela on board was essential due to his extensive knowledge of the league.

Likewise, Orlando Pirates have appointed Mandla Ncikazi as an assistant to Jose Riveiro.

These instances are frequently referenced as factors contributing to the success of these clubs, as such coaches possess a profound understanding of player mentality and the league’s nuances.

However, Nabi asserts that this reasoning does not apply to Chiefs, who currently occupy the eighth position in the Betway Premiership standings with 29 points from 23 matches.

“I think, I reiterate, skills do not possess a nationality,” Nabi remarked.

“Do you understand? Before I arrived in South Africa, I assessed all the PSL teams and their football. Should you quiz me on game number 28, I can provide you with performance statistics for Kaizer Chiefs, and that’s not an issue.

“Wearing this jersey means you are South African, you are a Khosi, and the issue is not about nationality; all my staff, including Mr. Cedric Kaze (assistant coach), understands that.

“As a professional, you don’t require much time to analyze the PSL.”

The defeat to Arrows marked Chiefs’ second straight loss. They aim to regain their winning form when they face fourth-placed TS Galaxy at Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday at 19:00.