Kaizer Chiefs coach Nasreddine Nabi has addressed concerns regarding Inácio Miguel’s high number of yellow cards in the early stages of the season, dismissing suggestions of disciplinary issues.
Miguel, who joined Chiefs ahead of the new 2024/25 season from Angolan giants Petro de Luanda, accrued a significant number of yellow cards this season, with many, including ex-Chiefs player David Kannemeyer, questioning his temperament on the field.
In a recent interview with FARPost, Kannemeyer expressed his opinion on Miguel, stating that the Angolan is a talented player but strongly emphasised the need for improved discipline.
“He’s a good defender, but I think he should learn to keep his cool and be a bit calm when he’s playing,” said Kannemeyer.
Miguel has picked up six yellow cards in just six appearances for the Soweto giants in all competitions. He was suspended for the league match against Magesi FC last month due to excessive yellow cards. Shortly after his return from the one-match ban, he was sent off in the Carling Knockout quarter-final against Mamelodi Sundowns after receiving his second yellow card of the game.
However, Nabi believes that Miguel’s aggressive style of play and his determination to win balls contribute to his high card count.
NABI ADDRESSES INÁCIO MIGUEL YELLOW CARD COUNT
The Amakhosi coach also attributed the centre-back’s high card count to his relative newness to South African football and suggested that Miguel needs time to adapt to the physicality and intensity of the local league.
“I don’t think Miguel has a problem of discipline, he is a really good guy, a real captain, but you know he is new in South African football,” said Nabi at Naturena on Monday.
“He needs a bit of time to adjust and adapt, not only for football but the atmosphere. If he has received more, I agree with you, but I think he wants to give his maximum best at Kaizer Chiefs, and sometimes, it is too much.
“But he is a good guy, best personality, I love this guy but he has promised me more…He is an example of good disciple on and off the field, but he should maybe be more careful when playing.
The former Petro de Luanda defender will miss Chiefs’ next two matches, serving a two-match suspension for his red card against Sundowns. He will be unavailable for the upcoming Betway Premiership match against Richards Bay FC on Wednesday and the subsequent fixture against Royal AM on Saturday.
RELATED STORY: Miguel Inácio’s heartfelt isiZulu birthday message for Chiefs’ starlet Mfundo Vilakazi
