Kaizer Chiefs have finally ended their decade-long trophy drought, but their head coach Nasreddine Nabi still faces an uncertain future. Just days after lifting the Nedbank Cup with a thrilling 2-1 victory over arch-rivals Orlando Pirates, top brass at the club remain locked in debate over whether to retain or release the man behind the historic win.
Victory doesn’t guarantee job security
Despite orchestrating the club’s first major silverware in 10 years, Nabi’s job security is anything but assured. High-level discussions within the club are ongoing, with decision-makers split on whether the coach’s cup success outweighs concerns about a lackluster league campaign.
Insiders revealed that some Chiefs executives remain unimpressed with the team’s inconsistent league form. “There is no decision at the moment,” a source close to the club confirmed. “After the Nedbank Cup on Saturday, the team was only scheduled to meet on Monday. The club is happy with the progress, and there was never a condition placed on Nabi to win or else leave.”
The coach currently holds a two-year contract with an optional one-year extension, which runs until June 30, 2026.
House split over Nabi’s future
While Nabi enjoys support from figures like football manager Bobby Motaung and Sporting Director Kaizer Motaung Junior, both reportedly in favour of letting him serve his full term, not all voices in management agree.
“There were mixed feelings and different opinions,” the source added. “Some believe it would be unfair to sack the coach after winning the Nedbank Cup, especially since the club didn’t sign all the players the technical team requested.”
The contrast is stark: On one hand, the cup triumph proves that progress is happening. On the other, the team’s inconsistent league performance—likely to miss out on a top-eight finish and MTN8 qualification—raises red flags.
Kaizer Chiefs at a crossroads
The Amakhosi now find themselves at a pivotal turning point. Does the club ride the wave of cup success and back Nabi to build something long-term? Or does it hit the reset button, risking further instability?
Nabi’s supporters argue that lifting the Nedbank Cup is proof that his methods are working. Detractors remain focused on the bigger picture—one that paints a team still struggling for consistency in the league.
This internal tug-of-war could shape Kaizer Chiefs’ future for years to come. For now, the boardroom remains a battleground, and fans will have to wait and see if the man who brought the club glory will still be in charge when the new season kicks off.
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