Kaizer Chiefs head coach Nasreddine Nabi might not have everyone in his corner after a rocky run of results, but his commitment to playing an attractive, attacking brand of football has earned him growing respect—especially in media circles.
Nabi Sticks to Chiefs’ Identity Over Quick Fixes
Many supporters still remember the heartbreak of the 2019/20 season, where Chiefs lost out on the league title in the dying moments of the campaign. Despite the near-success, the team’s direct playing style, relying heavily on target men like Samir Nurkovic and Leonardo Castro, drew criticism and was mockingly labeled “helicopter football.”
Now at the helm, Nabi is determined to break away from that approach—even if it costs him some short-term popularity.
“I could easily set the team up to sit deep and play direct, and we probably wouldn’t have dropped as many points,” he told Kick Off. “But that’s not why I’m here. Chiefs didn’t bring me in to play low block football. That’s not in the club’s DNA. This is a big team, and we need to play like one.”
Nabi is aware of the backlash that comes with inconsistent results but remains firm in his vision for the club.
“When you drop points, of course there’s going to be criticism. That’s part of the job. But I don’t take it personally. I trust the process. I know what it takes to move this team forward,” he said.
All Eyes on the Soweto Derby Showdown
Kaizer Chiefs now prepare for their biggest match of the season — the Nedbank Cup final against Orlando Pirates. The clash is set for Saturday at 15:00 at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban.
It’s more than just a trophy at stake — it’s a chance for Nabi to prove that belief in a long-term vision can deliver results when it matters most.
