Kaizer Chiefs are actively reviewing candidates for a new head coach job ahead of the 2024/25 DStv Premiership season. The club reportedly received hundreds of CVs, highlighting the strong interest in this high-profile position.
Meanwhile, they continue their disappointing season, languishing in eighth place with only 30 points in 23 matches. They trail league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns by a substantial 23 points. The team’s recent form adds to concerns, with three losses and one draw in their last four matches.
However, changes are on the horizon. Interim coach Cavin Johnson will return to his youth development role, making way for a new technical team next season. This shift aims to revitalise the struggling Soweto giants.
Sources indicate Chiefs have a clear vision for their new coach. They seek a transformative leader who can restore the club’s former glory. The sought-after candidate must also have a proven track record and the ability to implement a winning strategy.
Here’s a breakdown of the key priorities Amakhosi management is reportedly considering.
PROVEN TRACK RECORD OF SUCCESS
Winning Pedigree: The ideal candidate must be a man who boasts a history of winning trophies at the highest levels. Chiefs are determined to return to their championship-winning ways. It’s almost a decade since they last lifted a piece of silverware. Amakhosi’s most recent title came in the 2014/15 season when they won the Premiership. The club reportedly places a premium on demonstrated league success, signifying the ability to consistently implement a winning strategy over an extended period.
Continental Ambition: They are seeking a coach with experience and a hunger to achieve continental success. Chiefs see the CAF Champions League trophy, represented by a ‘star’ on a winning club’s crest, as the ultimate goal. Their last appearance was a 3-0 defeat to Al Ahly in the 2021 final at the Stade Mohammed V in Casablanca, Morocco.
In 2001, Amakhosi had their only taste of continental glory when they lifted the African Cup Winners Cup. In 2004, the African Cup Winners’ Cup was merged with the CAF Cup to create the CAF Confederation Cup.
MODERN FOOTBALL PHILOSOPHY
In a bid to become competitive, the Soweto giants are seemingly recognising the importance of adopting a modern football philosophy that emphasises player development, tactical flexibility and data-driven decision-making.
High-Intensity, Possession-Based Football: “In our conversation with the club, they seem to envision a dynamic style of play built on controlling possession and dominating opponents through relentless pressing and attacking intent,” said an intermediary of a European coach constantly linked with the job.
Innovation and Adaptability: “The club was also clear they’re seeking a coach who embraces modern tactics, can read the game effectively, and make the necessary in-game adjustments to outmanoeuvre the opposition.”
STRONG LEADERSHIP AND CHARACTER
Disciplinarian and Nurturer: The club’s management took a stern stand against captain and long-serving member, Itumeleng Khune, this season. It was over disciplinary issues. Interestingly, Chiefs have made it clear they want a coach who can instil discipline while simultaneously cultivating a positive and supportive team environment.
Robust Personality: The chosen candidate has to possess a commanding presence and an unwavering belief in their ability to lead the team to victory.
Integrating Youth Players: In their hunt for a new man, they are prioritising candidates with a proven track record of developing and integrating young academy players into the senior squad. Some of Amakhosi’s bright academy graduates include Mfundo Vilakazi, Mduduzi Shabalala, Samkelo Zwane, Happy Mashiane and Wandile Duba.
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