Former Kaizer Chiefs coach Nasreddine Nabi has opened up on his decision to bring former Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Wayne Sandilands to Raja Casablanca as part of his technical team.
Nabi, who took charge of the Moroccan giants after leaving Chiefs almost a year ago, has turned to the South African goalkeeping coach as he continues reshaping his backroom staff ahead of the 2026/27 season.
Sandilands returns to Raja for a second stint after previously serving at the club under Nabi’s predecessor, Fadlu Davids.
FARPost has established that the 42-year-old has already arrived in Casablanca and begun his duties as the club intensifies preparations for the new campaign.
He replaces Tunisian goalkeeping coach Ilyes Mzoughi, who recently departed after an alleged explicit video surfaced online. Mzoughi later denied the video’s authenticity, claiming it had been generated using artificial intelligence as part of an extortion attempt after he allegedly refused to pay blackmailers $20,000 [about R329,000].
Speaking to FARPost from Morocco, Nabi said his decision to appoint specialist coaches is driven by quality, professionalism and their ability to improve his players.
‘I HAVE RESPECT FOR HIM’ – NABI ON SANDILANDS
“I have respect for him, and he’s a true professional. I contacted him because I believe my goalkeepers will benefit from someone like him,” Nabi told FARPost.
Sandilands has established himself as one of South Africa’s most respected goalkeeping coaches since retiring from professional football. His coaching CV includes spells at Maritzburg United, Orlando Pirates’ DStv Diski Challenge side, Simba SC in Tanzania and AmaZulu FC.
His credentials have also continued to grow. Four weeks ago, Sandilands announced on LinkedIn that he had completed both his UEFA A coaching licence and UEFA A Elite Youth Licence.
SANDILANDS RETURNS TO RAJA CASABLANCA TO BOOST TITLE PUSH
“Every course provides another opportunity to learn, challenge ideas, and refine the way we coach. Delighted to have completed both my UEFA A [outfield] Licence as well as my UEFA A Elite Youth Licence. Thank you to the tutors, coaches and everyone who contributed throughout this journey,” he wrote.
In addition to those qualifications, Sandilands also holds the UEFA A Goalkeeping Diploma. During his playing career, Sandilands earned recognition as one of South Africa’s good goalkeepers.
As a coach, he has built a reputation for helping goalkeepers maximise their potential while contributing to the collective success of the team. His philosophy centres on the belief that the modern goalkeeper is far more than a shot-stopper — they are a leader, communicator, decision-maker and an integral part of a team’s tactical identity.
Raja will hope Sandilands’ return helps strengthen their push to reclaim the Botola Pro title after finishing third last season behind RS Berkane and champions MAS Fes, who were coached by Pablo Franco Martin.
Nabi, who previously guided AS FAR to the Moroccan league title, is expected to oversee further reinforcements as Raja mount another challenge for the title.
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