Kaizer Chiefs’ Coach Future Confirmed After Crucial Meeting — Plus a Major New Signing Shakes Up the PSL

After a rollercoaster season that saw Kaizer Chiefs finish outside the top eight in the Premier Soccer League, questions swirled about the future of head coach Arthur Zwane.

Despite winning the Nedbank Cup, many fans and analysts viewed the league performance as underwhelming for a club of Chiefs’ stature.

Zwane himself hinted at uncertainty about his future unless the squad is bolstered with quality players who fit his tactical approach.

“I think yesterday we had an exchange with the chairman.

We know exactly what needs to be done in terms of players,” Zwane revealed.

“I will not say how many or which players we need, but the recruitment department is working very hard and knows the needs of the team and contact has already started.”

This candid admission came amid rumors that Zwane could be dismissed due to the disappointing league finish.

However, after a long and productive meeting with chairman Kaizer Motaung Senior, a clear understanding has been reached.

The club’s hierarchy is committed to strengthening the squad in line with Zwane’s vision, aiming to create a team capable of competing for top honors next season.

The final decision on Zwane’s continuation as head coach will be made after the end-of-season review, but the tone is optimistic.

“The management know already we’ve had a couple of meetings.

They know what needs to be done and which areas need to improve,” Zwane said.

“Our league finish was not what we expected or deserved, but it was a difficult season, and we managed to win a cup.”

Zwane described the season as a “negative season due to winning a cup,” acknowledging both the struggles and the progress made.

He emphasized that the team’s process has advanced and that with the right reinforcements, significant improvement is expected.

In parallel with the coaching saga, the transfer market has delivered a major headline.

Wydad Athletic Club, the Moroccan giants, have announced the signing of Stefan Azizi, a former target of both Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates.

Azizi, a 29-year-old midfielder from Young Africans, has been one of Africa’s most sought-after players after an exceptional 2023/24 season.

Azizi clinched the Golden Boot in the NBC Premier League with 21 goals and impressed in the CAF Champions League, attracting interest from top clubs including Pirates, Chiefs, Mamelodi Sundowns, and Egypt’s Pyramids FC.

Though Wydad’s coach Rulani Mokwena had tried to sign Azizi before the season, the player initially chose to stay with Young Africans.

Now, ahead of the FIFA World Cup, Wydad has secured Azizi’s services along with two other players, Norin Amrabad and Hamza Hanuri.

This trio is expected to strengthen the Moroccan side’s quest for continental glory.

Back at Orlando Pirates, interim head coach Mandla Ncikazi has shared an update on his role following Jose Riveiro’s early departure.

Ncikazi, who initially joined as Riveiro’s assistant in 2021, signed a two-year contract extension keeping him at the club until 2025/26.

Despite uncertainty about whether he will remain head coach permanently, Ncikazi reaffirmed his dedication.

“I’m wired differently.

I’m working at Pirates.

If I’m there, they are good enough.

If I’m not there and it’s decided, they are still good enough,” he said.

“I’m proud of the contribution I’m making and being appreciated by the club.

As long as it’s like that, I’ll always be a servant of this club until told otherwise.”

Reflecting on the season, Ncikazi expressed satisfaction with the club’s growth and competitiveness across competitions.

“We managed to narrow the gap between Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns, broke records, and introduced youngsters,” he noted.

“Yes, we fell short on some objectives, but we can learn and improve going into next season.”

The coming weeks promise to be decisive for both Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates as they prepare for the next PSL season.

Chiefs are set to reinforce their squad under Zwane’s guidance, hoping to climb back into the title race.

Meanwhile, Pirates continue their search for a permanent head coach while maintaining steady progress under Ncikazi.

Fans should keep a close eye on official announcements as clubs finalize their coaching and transfer plans.

The PSL landscape is shifting rapidly, and these moves could define the fortunes of South Africa’s biggest clubs.

What do you think about Kaizer Chiefs’ decision to back Zwane?

Will the new signings and potential squad upgrades be enough to challenge for the league crown?

And how will Pirates fare under Ncikazi’s leadership moving forward?

Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below.

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