The Frenchman dropped a bombshell two weeks ago by informing the Soweto giants he was keen to head back to North Africa following an offer from the Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF).

Chiefs subsequently announced they had accepted the request and would not stand in the way of Da Cruz pursuing this sudden opportunity.

But appears the move is not quite over the line just yet, with the Glamour Boys understood to have agreed that, should any technical team member request an early contract termination, the party affected would pay a 12-month settlement.

And, with Da Cruz so keen to explore the new venture, Chiefs were lenient in reducing the terms to a mere three-month compensation.

According to information gathered by the public broadcaster, the club remains in ongoing talks with the coach’s representatives to resolve the matter.

Asked by SABC Sport whether he’d replace his assistant coach, after their 2-1 win over Marumo Gallants in Bloemfontein, Nabi suggested the decision on Da Cruz was not yet finalised, leading to some confusion.

It’s now been suggested there’s a slim chance Da Cruz could instead return to see out his contract in Naturena, given the broken trust and his desire to leave on the eve of the 2024/25 campaign.

The 52-year-old was the first of the newly-assembled technical staff to arrive at Naturena in June, while Nabi was wrapping up the season with AS FAR.

Nabi, who confirmed he urgently needs the role to be filled, has begun his search for a replacement in the coming weeks.

READ: Nasreddine Nabi vows to take risks during Kaizer Chiefs tenure

Local Start Time Venue	14 Oct at 10:00 AM
Local Time	14 Oct at 08:00 AM
Toss	Titans (RSA) won the toss and chose to batting
Country	South Africa
City	Centurion
Venue	SuperSport Park
Established	1992
Result	Lions won by 9 wickets

Finished CSA 4-Day Series Division 1