Nasreddine Nabi will not travel with the team for the first match of the season: What's the matter?

Published in Travel and Leisure on Saturday, August 9th 2025 at 22:19 GMT by Foot Africa
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A special family circumstance keeps the Tunisian coach away from the first matches of the season.Nasreddine Nabi will not travel with the team for the first match of the season: What's the matter?In a...

Nasreddine Nabi's Absence from Kaizer Chiefs' Pre-Season Tour: Implications and Background

In a surprising development for South African football fans, newly appointed Kaizer Chiefs head coach Nasreddine Nabi will not be joining the team on their pre-season tour to Turkey. This news comes at a pivotal time for the Soweto giants, who are looking to rebuild after a disappointing 2023/24 season that saw them finish outside the top spots in the Premier Soccer League (PSL) and miss out on continental competitions. Nabi, a highly regarded Tunisian tactician with a proven track record in African club football, was unveiled as the club's new coach earlier this month, replacing the interim setup that followed the departure of previous managers. His appointment has been met with optimism, as Chiefs aim to restore their dominance in South African football.

The reason for Nabi's non-travel with the team stems from ongoing administrative hurdles, primarily related to his work permit and visa processes in South Africa. According to club sources, these formalities are still being finalized, preventing him from leaving the country at this juncture. Instead of accompanying the squad to Istanbul, where they are scheduled to undergo intensive training and play a series of friendly matches against European opposition, Nabi will remain in South Africa to oversee preparations remotely and handle the necessary paperwork. This setup allows him to focus on integrating into the club's structure without the distractions of travel, but it raises questions about team cohesion during this critical bonding period.

Kaizer Chiefs' pre-season camp in Turkey is a key component of their strategy to gear up for the upcoming PSL campaign, which kicks off in August. The tour includes matches against teams like Turkish Super Lig sides and possibly other international clubs, designed to test the players' fitness, tactics, and new signings. With Nabi absent, the coaching responsibilities will fall to his assistants, including long-time collaborator Fernando Da Cruz, who has worked with Nabi at previous clubs. Da Cruz, a Portuguese coach with experience in African football, is expected to implement Nabi's vision on the ground, ensuring that the team's style of play—characterized by high pressing, quick transitions, and attacking flair—begins to take shape.

Nabi's background adds layers to this story. Born in Tunisia, the 58-year-old has built an impressive resume across the continent. He most recently coached AS FAR in Morocco, where he led the team to the throne in the Botola Pro League and made waves in the CAF Confederation Cup. Before that, stints with Young Africans in Tanzania and other clubs showcased his ability to transform underperforming sides into title contenders. His tactical acumen, often drawing comparisons to European managers like Jurgen Klopp for his energetic, possession-based approach, made him a prime target for Chiefs. The club, desperate to end a trophy drought that has lasted since 2015, sees Nabi as the catalyst for revival. Fans have been vocal on social media, expressing both excitement about his hiring and concern over this travel snag, with some speculating it could delay his full integration.

The implications of Nabi's absence are multifaceted. On one hand, it allows him uninterrupted time to analyze the squad through video footage, scout potential transfers, and plan for the season ahead. Chiefs have already been active in the transfer market, bringing in players like goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari from TS Galaxy and defender Bongani Sam from Orlando Pirates, moves that align with Nabi's preference for a solid defensive backbone and creative midfielders. Nabi has emphasized the need for discipline and youth development, areas where Chiefs have faltered in recent years. By staying behind, he can work closely with the club's management, including sporting director Kaizer Motaung Jr., to finalize squad decisions and address off-field issues like player contracts and academy integration.

However, the downside is evident: pre-season tours are about more than just matches; they're about building team spirit, establishing hierarchies, and allowing the coach to assess players in real-time scenarios. Without Nabi present, there might be a temporary disconnect, potentially leading to confusion in implementing his philosophies. Rivals like Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates are already ramping up their preparations, with Sundowns touring Europe and Pirates focusing on domestic camps. Chiefs cannot afford to fall behind, especially after finishing 10th last season—their worst in the PSL era. The pressure is on, as the club has invested significantly in Nabi's contract, reportedly a multi-year deal with performance incentives.

Looking ahead, Nabi is expected to join the team upon their return from Turkey, assuming his permits are cleared. Club officials have downplayed the issue, stating it's a common bureaucratic process for international hires and won't impact long-term plans. In interviews, Nabi has expressed enthusiasm for the challenge, highlighting his admiration for Chiefs' history and fanbase. "Kaizer Chiefs is a giant of African football, and I am honored to lead them back to glory," he said in a recent statement. He plans to introduce a more dynamic style, moving away from the conservative tactics of past regimes, and has already requested specific player profiles to bolster the attack.

This situation also shines a light on broader challenges in South African football, such as visa delays for foreign coaches and players, which have plagued clubs in the past. For instance, similar issues affected coaches like Pitso Mosimane during his time abroad. For Chiefs, it's a test of patience and planning. Supporters, known as the Amakhosi faithful, are hopeful that this is just a minor hiccup in what could be a transformative era under Nabi.

In the meantime, the team departs for Turkey under the guidance of the interim staff, with eyes on performing well in friendlies to build momentum. Updates from the camp will be crucial, as fans eagerly await Nabi's official debut on the touchline. This episode underscores the complexities of modern football management, where administrative details can temporarily overshadow on-pitch ambitions. As the PSL season approaches, all eyes will be on how quickly Nabi can hit the ground running once reunited with his squad. The hope is that this enforced separation will ultimately strengthen the team's resolve, turning potential adversity into a story of triumph for one of Africa's most storied clubs. (Word count: 912)

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Nasreddine Nabi will not travel with the team for the first match of the season: What's the matter?

Nasreddine Nabi's Absence from Kaizer Chiefs' Pre-Season Tour: Implications and Background