Kaizer Chiefs coach Nasreddine Nabi believes his team is only scratching the surface of their potential, stating they are just 20% of what he envisions for the future.
Despite a promising start to the season with two consecutive wins, Nabi remains unsatisfied, believing his team is only operating at a fraction of its true capabilities.
Nabi’s candid assessment came after Chiefs’ 3-1 victory over AmaZulu FC, their second win of the season in the Betway Premiership. “Honestly, I’m not happy, I’m not happy,” he admitted. “I am at 20% of what I imagine, Kaizer Chiefs.”
While acknowledging the positive results, Nabi emphasised his broader vision for the team. “If you win, you are happy, but for myself, as a coach, I have another responsibility. I have another eye, another thing. Inside, I’m not happy about some things. In other things, we progress, and it’s normal. But we are sure we will come back. I don’t know what time, but we will come back.”
NABI’S VISION FOR ‘PROTAGONIST FOOTBALL’
Nabi envisions an Amakhosi team playing attractive, attacking football while delivering results. He believes this style, which he calls “protagonist football,” is essential to reignite the passion of the club’s fanbase.
“I want to propose protagonist football, [which is] lovely football for Kaizer Chiefs, but not for now,” he explained.
“I think a club like Kaizer Chiefs with a big DNA needs beautiful football with results. If you propose good football with results, the fans will come. I need them. I need the fans. All the players need the fans. In a bad moment and a good moment, I need them. But I promise the fans that step by step, we will build the team. We propose very beautiful football.”
Nabi’s next challenge is a formidable one: a clash against defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns at the FNB Stadium on Saturday afternoon. Kick-off is at 3 PM.
“All of Africa and myself, we respect Mamelodi Sundowns. It’s a great team, and I congratulate the coach on the place they reached in Africa,” Nabi remarked, acknowledging the strength of their opponents.
Meanwhile, Sundowns coach Manqoba Mngqithi has praised Nabi’s work at Chiefs. “I must also commend the work coach Nabi has done with the team. In a very short time, the team looks very dangerous.”
The match is generating significant anticipation, with over 44,000 tickets already sold. It promises to be a thrilling encounter between two of South Africa’s top teams.
Nabi’s Chiefs are looking to continue their winning start and prove they are on the right track towards fulfilling their coach’s ambitious vision.
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