Kaizer Chiefs are already looking over their shoulders in a chase for an MTN8 place next season. What’s going on there and is Nabi culpable?
Nabi walked into a mess
Although Nasreddine Nabi added a few smart acquisitions to the Amakhosi roster in the shape of Inacio Miguel and Rushwin Dortley, there are still gaping holes in the squad. Mduduzi Shabalala is already being too heavily relied upon in the number 10 role at the age of 20 and teenager Mfundo Vilakazi is starting too many games because there aren’t enough good wide attacking options. 31-year-old Ranga Chivaviro isn’t the long-term goal-scoring answer despite his decent start to the season, while Gaston Sirino is 33 and already picking up the odd niggle and injury.
Kaizer Chiefs still can’t defend
When last did Kaizer Chiefs keep a clean sheet? We’ll tell you, It was back in May against Polokwane City in the 2023-2024 season. Nabi’s new side hasn’t kept a single shutout this entire season, across all competitions. Yes, individuals Dortley and Miguel have looked good, but the collective unit still isn’t functioning properly.
The new boss needs time, but will he be given that luxury?
The long wait for silverware at Kaizer Chiefs continues after their 0-4 hammering at the hands of Mamelodi Sundowns in the Carling Knockout quarter-finals. There’s a long beak until the Glamour Boys continue their Betway Premiership campaign; next up is the visit of Richards Bay on the 27th of November. Only five league encounters remain in the calendar year of 2024. The Amakhosi board haven’t exactly been shy to sack managers in recent seasons and the new manager could already be worrying about his job before the turn of the year.
Next five for Kaizer Chiefs after their Carling Knockout exit
- Chiefs vs Richards Bay: Wednesday 27 Nov, 19:30
- Chiefs vs Royal AM: Saturday 30 Nov, 17:30
- Polokwane vs Chiefs: Sunday 08 Dec, 15:30
- TS Galaxy vs Chiefs: Monday 16 Dec, 15:30
- Chiefs vs Chippa: Sunday 29 December, 17:30
Will Nabi manage a top-eight finish?
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