With Nasreddine Nabi’s successor the subject of intense speculation, the
search for Kaizer Chiefs’ next head coach is in full swing. From local
legends to international tacticians, a diverse list of candidates has been
linked with one of the most high-pressure jobs in South African football.
Here are the top ten coaches reportedly on Amakhosi’s radar.
10. Sven Vandenbroeck
The Belgian coach, currently with Zulte Waregem, previously expressed
interest in the Chiefs role. His strong African pedigree includes leading
Wydad Casablanca to a CAF Champions League title in 2022 and a semi-final
finish the following year.
9. Alexandre Gallo
The experienced Brazilian was a contender for the post in 2023. Gallo brings
extensive experience from top Brazilian clubs like Santos and Atletico
Mineiro, as well as stints in Saudi Arabia, Japan, and the USA. He is
currently unattached after a role as co-ordinator at Botafogo.
8. Jose Peseiro
Fresh from leading Nigeria to the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations final, the
Portuguese coach was a top contender to succeed Cavin Johnson. After losing
out to Nabi, Peseiro was swiftly appointed by Egyptian giants Zamalek.
7. Alexandre Santos
Santos was heavily linked with Chiefs after impressing at Angolan side Pedro
de Luanda, where he won two league titles and reached the CAF Champions
League semi-finals. However, he has since been appointed by Moroccan club AS
FAR Rabat.
6. Raul Caneda
The Spanish tactician was praised for his philosophy and tactical acumen in
previous considerations. Notably, he is recognised as one of Pep Guardiola’s
mentors. His coaching experience is primarily in the Middle East and Asia,
and he currently manages Chinese Super League side Zhejiang Professional.
5. Rui Vitoria
A high-profile name touted for the shortlist, Vitoria is now available after
being relieved of his duties by Greek side Panathinaikos. The Portuguese
manager boasts multiple title wins with Benfica and has African experience
from his time coaching the Egyptian national team.
4. Benni McCarthy
The former Bafana Bafana star has often been a fan favourite for the role.
While McCarthy has previously shown little interest in a PSL return unless
for a title-contending project, the big question is whether Chiefs could
lure him away from his current position as head coach of the Kenya national
team.
3. Jose Riveiro
A name that would send shockwaves through the PSL, Riveiro is the highly
successful current coach of arch-rivals Orlando Pirates. While his stint at
Al Ahly was brief, his domestic success makes him a tantalising, if
controversial, potential target.
2. Pitso Mosimane
“Jingles” needs no introduction. The most successful coach in South African
history, with three CAF Champions League titles to his name, is currently
unattached. His name consistently surfaces whenever the Chiefs job is open,
making him a perennial and formidable candidate.
1. Pedro Soares Goncalves
According to recent reports from Portugal, Chiefs have approached Goncalves
with a view to an interview. The Portuguese coach is highly regarded for his
transformative work with the Angola national team, where he secured a
historic AFCON quarter-final berth and back-to-back COSAFA Cup triumphs.
