Nasreddine Nabi’s Exit From Kaizer Chiefs Nears After Strained Spell at Naturena

Nasreddine Nabi’s tenure as Kaizer Chiefs head coach is coming to an end, with negotiations around his departure now underway following the club’s 2-0 defeat to Sekhukhune United on Tuesday night. The Tunisian-Belgian tactician has been on borrowed time at Naturena since the back end of last season, with tensions between him and the club hierarchy growing steadily.

Chiefs had hoped Nabi’s arrival from FAR Rabat in 2023 would signal the start of a revival. Instead, the relationship soured as results fell short of expectations. The Soweto giants have now missed out on a top-eight league finish for two consecutive seasons, extending their struggles in domestic football. Nabi briefly survived by lifting silverware to end the club’s trophy drought, but his general conduct, tactical approach, and inability to stabilise performances have left officials dissatisfied.

At 60, Nabi has drawn criticism for failing to leave a mark at Naturena. Reports from within the camp suggest he has appeared unsettled, while management grew increasingly concerned about his methods. His contract details add further complexity to the situation. After activating his release clause at FAR Rabat last year, Nabi agreed to pay two months’ salary as compensation, an amount that came to 60 000 Euro, roughly R1.2 million.

On joining Chiefs, he signed a two-year deal with an option for a third year. His improved package saw his earnings rise to 40 000 Euro a month, about R822 000. The terms of his exit are still being discussed. The club may choose to suspend him with pay until a resolution is reached or opt for a settlement to end his contract outright.

Sources in Morocco and Tunisia have long suggested that Nabi was unlikely to see out his full contract in South Africa. The current situation now points to an exit being inevitable.

Meanwhile, Chiefs must quickly shift focus to continental duty. The Glamour Boys are scheduled to travel to Luanda, Angola, on Thursday for the first leg of their CAF Confederation Cup first qualifying round tie. For the club’s leadership, the upcoming clash comes with the added challenge of managing the fallout from Nabi’s looming departure.