Nabi vows to continue project as Chiefs miss Top 8 and face fan pressure

Kaizer Chiefs head coach Nasreddine Nabi has fired back at critics following his side’s failure to secure a top-eight finish in the Betway Premiership, insisting that his project with the Soweto giants remains a work in progress.

Chiefs ended their campaign with a goalless draw against Polokwane City, finishing ninth—a repeat of last season’s disappointment. Despite the Nedbank Cup triumph which ended the club’s 10-year trophy drought, the league form has cast a shadow over Nabi’s debut season.

“I’m not a small coach in a small team. Winning the Nedbank Cup is good, but for a club like Chiefs, it's supposed to be normal. I came here to build a team, not for instant glory” Nabi told reporters.

Chiefs registered their lowest ever points tally (32) in a 30-match league season. Under pressure, the Tunisian tactician remains adamant:

“It’s a process.”

Key Points from Nabi’s Remarks:

• Chiefs were second in chances created but struggled to convert opportunities.
• He met with chairman Kaizer Motaung Sr. recently to discuss recruitment strategy for next season.
• Reinforcements are already being lined up, though no names were disclosed.
• Despite the poor finish, Nabi rates the season as “not negative”, citing the Nedbank Cup win and continental qualification as progress markers.

Rebuilding Mode Activated

Nabi emphasized that the Chiefs' technical staff and management now have a clearer direction for the next phase of the project. Internal discussions have also considered bringing in a local assistant coach to bridge communication and cultural gaps within the squad.

The Reality Check

• Chiefs finished 41 points behind champions Sundowns.
• They were also 28 points adrift of second-placed Orlando Pirates.

Contract & Future

Nabi is on a two-year deal with an option to extend, but questions persist. While he defends the progress made, internal tensions and fan dissatisfaction could weigh heavily in end-of-season reviews.

Final Word from Nabi:

“I know my quality. I have big confidence… But Chiefs must play for titles every year.”

The coming weeks will reveal whether Kaizer Chiefs sees their Tunisian manager as the man to finish what he started—or just another chapter in their long rebuild.