Just days after parting ways with Kaizer Chiefs, spirited goalkeeper coach Ilyes Mzoughi is set for his next assignment on the international stage.
Mzoughi, who initially joined the club with former Chiefs coach Nasreddine Nabi, spent two seasons at the club.
When the club decided to cut ties with co-coaches Cedric Kaze and Khalil Ben Youssef, Mzoughi and condition coach Majdi Safi’s contracts were not renewed. But the Tunisian will leave with his head held high after the season Brandon Petersen has
had.
Petersen has been the club’s standout player, keeping 18 clean sheets across all competitions. Nonetheless, Mzoughi, who was said to be keen on staying, was released by the club.
WHERE’S ILYES MZOUGHI GOING AFTER CHIEFS EXIT
Mzoughi has reached an agreement with the Burkina Faso national setup, where he will form part of their technical team for the upcoming international friendly matches. The move comes despite his long-term preference to remain in club football, but the national team opportunity offers an immediate pathway into active competition.
The Burkina Faso national team will face both Russia and Belarus in a series of upcoming friendly matches, with Mzoughi expected to contribute to the team’s preparation and matchday operations during the fixtures.
On 5 June, they take on Russia, then Belarus on the 9th of June. Before joining Kaizer Chiefs, Mzoughi notably spent four years as the goalkeeper coach for the Mauritanian national team. He also played professionally in France, Germany, and Switzerland before transitioning into coaching across North Africa and the Gulf region. He had to stop when he joined the Soweto giants.
Mzoughi has maintained close relations with Nabi and could possibly work with him in his next project. His compatriot, Nabi, is linked to Moroccan giants Wydad Athletic Club.
RELATED STORY: Brandon Petersen opens up on working with goalkeeper coach IIyes Mzoughi