Kaizer Chiefs DDC Coach Vela Khumalo Poised for Promotion to First-Team Assistant Coach

Kaizer Chiefs are reportedly planning to promote their DDC (Development) coach, Vela Khumalo, to the first-team next season, according to sources close to the club. The Siya crew understands that Khumalo is being considered for the role of assistant coach to Nasreddine Nabi as the club looks to revitalize its fortunes and return to its former glory.

Khumalo has made a significant impact within Chiefs’ development structures, and management believes his promotion to the senior team would be a positive step for both the first team and the club’s youth development program.

A Long-Considered Move

This potential promotion was initially discussed during the Cavin Johnson era but was put on hold when Dillon Sheppard was appointed as the assistant coach. However, according to insiders, Chiefs management now believes that Khumalo’s unique ability to communicate with players and his deep understanding of the club’s youth setup makes him an ideal candidate to assist Nabi.

“This was supposed to happen last season under Cavin Johnson, but Dillon (Sheppard) was there as the assistant. Now, management believes they need someone who can easily communicate with the players and understands them. Vela Khumalo is seen as someone who can help with that,” a source close to the club stated.

While the promotion is expected to go ahead, the logistics of balancing Khumalo’s duties with the DDC team and his role with the senior side will need to be carefully considered. He is already deeply embedded within the club’s development structure, which makes the transition to the first team a natural one, according to those in the know.

Khumalo’s Dual Role?

Khumalo’s role with the youth team has been highly praised, and even with the anticipated move to the senior team, he could still assist Sheppard with the DDC side, maintaining his influence in youth player development. His dual involvement in both the senior and youth teams would be a testament to his commitment to the club’s overall success, ensuring the next generation of players continues to thrive.

“He could be working with both the DDC and the senior team,” a second insider explained. “He understands the players very well, and most of them are from development. They want him to help both sides, the senior team, as well as continue to work with Sheppard in the DDC. He is also with the Under-17 national team, so they have to balance all that while giving the first team priority.”

Khumalo’s deep connection with the youth players at Chiefs, many of whom he has worked with since their early days in the club’s academy, is seen as a key asset. His expertise will undoubtedly be valuable in bridging the gap between the senior team and the club’s development pipeline.

Success Under Khumalo’s Leadership

Under Khumalo’s leadership, Chiefs’ youth team won the DStv Diski Challenge league title for the first time in 10 years, showcasing his ability to nurture young talent and guide them to success. His influence was also felt at the national level, as he guided the South Africa Under-17 national team to qualify for the prestigious FIFA Under-17 World Cup.

Khumalo’s success at the youth level has made him a respected figure in South African football, and his promotion to the first team is viewed as a reward for his hard work and dedication to developing young talent at Chiefs.

As the club continues to work on its plans for the next season, all eyes will be on whether Khumalo’s anticipated move to the senior team will help Chiefs regain their competitive edge and return to the upper echelons of South African football.