Reassurance for Kaizer Chiefs Amid Nasreddine Nabi Doubts

Kaizer Chiefs head coach Nasreddine Nabi finds himself under scrutiny as the Soweto giants endure a challenging start to the new season. With just eight league games played, the Amakhosi sit outside the Top Eight, struggling to deliver the results fans expected when the Tunisian-Belgian tactician was appointed.

While Chiefs’ supporters remain divided on whether the problem lies with Nabi or the squad itself, a mentor familiar with Nabi’s coaching methods has offered words of reassurance to the Khosi Nation.

Darian Wilken Praises Nabi’s Tactical Identity

Darian Wilken, a former assistant coach at Raja Casablanca, had the opportunity to study Nabi’s FAR Rabat side closely during the 2023/24 season. Speaking on Mike Morton Talks Football, Wilken highlighted the structure and intensity that defined Nabi’s teams in Morocco.

“His teams are really organized and well-coached,” Wilken said. “In every phase of the game, there’s a clear identity. They were an extremely physical side at FAR Rabat, dominating opponents with their physicality while maintaining vertical possession.”

Wilken added that FAR Rabat were not a possession-heavy team but focused on direct play with dangerous wingers and versatile fullbacks. The Moroccan side also thrived in set-piece situations, with their captain, Mohamed Hrimat, excelling in scoring from dead-ball opportunities.

“They were one of the best teams we played against in Morocco,” Wilken concluded, emphasizing that FAR Rabat narrowly lost the league title to Raja Casablanca, finishing just one point behind the champions.

Chiefs’ Challenges Under Nabi

Despite Nabi’s reputation as a tactician, Chiefs’ struggles continue. The team has yet to keep a clean sheet in the league and has shown a lack of composure in front of goal, missing clear opportunities to capitalize on their chances.

These issues have led to growing concerns among fans, with some questioning whether Nabi’s methods are compatible with the current squad or whether the players are failing to execute his strategies effectively.

As Chiefs aim to turn their season around, the Khosi Nation will hope to see glimpses of the tactical discipline and vertical play Nabi implemented so successfully at FAR Rabat. With time and perhaps adjustments to the squad, the Amakhosi faithful will be eager to see their team reclaim its status as a dominant force in South African football.

For now, the focus remains on supporting Nabi and the players as they work to find their rhythm. Only time will tell whether the coach can replicate his Moroccan success at Naturena.