Motaung Jnr says Nabi appointment shows Chiefs want to wake the sleeping giant

Kaizer Chiefs went for high-profile Nasreddine Nabi to make a strong statement about the vision and direction the success-starved club wants to take into the future. 

Speaking at the unveiling of their home and away kit for the coming season, sporting director Kaizer Motaung Jnr said they have gone through a period of introspection after many years of poor results. 

After their glorious success of the 1980s and 1990s, Amakhosi have gone nine years without major silverware, and Nabi has been roped in to start the process of reclaiming glory. 

“The fact that we have been able to bring in the professionals we have brought in is a big signal to understand the level where we need to be,” said Motaung Jnr. 

“The technical staff been roped in is an indication of the vision and direction of where we want to go. We are aware of what it takes for where this club needs to be. It is not only about the players on the field but also about every person person who dons the gold and black colours.  

Chiefs have so far signed goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari, defenders Bongani Sam and Rushwin Dortley, but Motaung Jnr made it clear the cheque book is not closed. 

“We are definitely not done on the transfer market because there are some positions in the squad that need to be reinforced. We have a young squad and it needs a bit of experience and quality. 

“We are mindful of the demands placed on them next season, so we are working behind the scenes day and night to make sure we reinforce the squad. We have a clear road map of what type of players we need and in what positions.” 

He explained why they chose to go on a pre-season training camp in Türkiye. 

“We had a camp behind closed doors for a specific reason. We wanted the coaching staff and players to bond and have a private space to work. We spent a few days in İzmit and the second part was in Istanbul. It was extremely important to get away for three weeks. 

"The weather was prime for conditioning and from a morale boosting perspective and phase one foundation preparation. It was an excellent tour. It was productive and the guys put in a lot of hard work."