Nabi's passion convinced Chiefs to hire him - Motaung

Kaizer Chiefs marketing director Jessica Motaung has explained why the club remained quiet in the market, saying they wanted the new coach, Nasreddine Nabi to have a say on who they will bring.

Nabi was confirmed as Amakhosi's new coach on Sunday evening after joining the club in Türkiye, where they are having their preseason.

Chiefs have only announced players who have departed the club, but are yet to confirm new signings and Motaung said the plan was to give the new coach a chance to look at the squad.

“I think we need to give the coach who just came in as well as the technical team and the rest of the team a chance to finalise those details,” Motaung told the media after the launch of the Toyota Cup yesterday.

“Work has been done but certainly, it makes sense for us to allow the coach to come in first and then be also part of the decisions that are being made. Those announcements will come soon.”

Motaung also revealed the reason they opted for Nabi was his passion for the game.

“There were several factors that we looked at, his passion for the game, his passion for Chiefs and his understanding of the African space and his professionalism,” she said.

“We did our homework in terms of engaging with him and we look forward to him working hard and making sure we are successful.”

While Itumeleng Khune's future with the club remains unclear after his contract ended last month, Motaung said negotiations are still ongoing for the goalkeeper to remain part of the club going forward, though in a different capacity.

“Khune is still part of the family. He is like a young brother to me. We are working behind the scenes engaging with him and looking at the opportunities that we can work together.

“It's a process and that's why, again, I ask for patience and allow us to make the right announcement.

“But as part of the family, we love him. He is part of the brand and we look forward to establishing another relationship.”