Contracts on hold as Kaizer Chiefs weigh coaching future

Co-coaches Khalil Ben Youssef and Cedric Kaze, who took charge earlier in the season following the departure of Nasreddine Nabi, remain under review ahead of a crucial end to the campaign.

As outlined by sporting director Kaizer Motaung Jnr the mandate was clear: secure a CAF Champions League place. Realistically, that would require either winning the Betway Premiership or finishing as runners-up.

However, Chiefs are currently projected to fall short of that target, with a third-place finish and a spot in the CAF Confederation Cup the more likely outcome. 

That scenario would leave the coaching duo below their directive, with their futures hanging in the balance.

This uncertainty has had a knock-on effect on player negotiations. 

At least six squad members are still awaiting clarity over their futures, including goalkeeper Bruce Bvuma, defenders Zitha Kwinika and Dillan Solomons, as well as midfielders Sibongiseni Mthethwa, Pule Mmodi and Gaston Sirino. 

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Talks are believed to be on hold until a final decision is made on the technical team, with the club keen for any incoming coach to have a say on squad composition.

Striker Khanyisa Mayo – on loan from Algerian giants CR Belouizdad until June 30 – also remains in limbo, with no obligation to buy despite earlier indications Chiefs could make the move permanent.

Mayo has had very limited game time at Naturena even though he was regarded a marquee signing when Chiefs got the deal over the line in September.

The delay could have serious implications for players, who may be forced into late moves as free agents, often accepting reduced salaries in a market where top clubs have already finalised their recruitment plans.

At this stage there’s no formal clarity on whether Amakhosi will retain some and discard others with the focus on a strong finish in the remaining eight league games. 

A final decision on the coaching staff and player contracts is expected at the end of the season, with indications pointing towards a possible change in the dugout.