When Nasreddine Nabi made his highly anticipated move to Kaizer Chiefs last year, it was clear that the club had invested heavily in the 59-year-old coach.
Fresh off a year with AS FAR in Morocco, Nabi’s contract buyout raised eyebrows, and reports suggested he would earn a hefty R783,000 a month—putting him among the highest-paid coaches in South African football.
Yet, despite the fanfare surrounding his arrival, the road hasn’t been smooth for Nabi and Chiefs this season.
Nabi Responds to Criticism and Addresses Job Security
While some Kaizer Chiefs fans have raised concerns about Nabi’s job security following inconsistent performances, the Tunisian coach remains resolute.
In a recent interview, he addressed the criticism head-on, acknowledging that criticism is a natural part of his role. “The coach can be criticized; that’s how the job is.
You lose four games, people have the right to criticize you,” he explained, as reported by FARPost.
However, Nabi cautioned fans not to jump to conclusions too quickly.
He emphasized that Kaizer Chiefs’ struggles have been a long-term issue, pointing out that the club has been stuck in a cycle of highs and lows for the past decade. “This is a process that is going on, and it has been 10 years that things are going, coming back to zero, going, and coming back to zero,” he said.
Nabi believes that some people might be intentionally undermining the process by demanding quick fixes, leading to coaches being fired and the cycle repeating itself every season.
Nabi’s Commitment to the Mission and the Club
Despite the pressure and media speculation about his salary and job, Nabi was quick to assert that his focus is on the task at hand, not the paycheck.
“I’m not here for the money,” he said firmly, further clarifying that, while his salary might be substantial, it’s not his driving force.
“People talk too much in the media. My salary, I don’t talk about it,” he added.
He even went so far as to share that he regularly receives offers from bigger clubs, with salaries three times what he makes at Chiefs. However, Nabi’s passion for the job and respect for the club keep him grounded.
“I have a mission here with Kaizer Chiefs, and I have big respect for the mission,” he said.
“I’m not here for the money, and I love this club. I’m strong, and I don’t lose my confidence quickly because I’m strong.”
What Do You Think of Nabi’s Tenure So Far?
Nabi’s time at Kaizer Chiefs has been a rollercoaster ride, with some questioning whether he can turn the club’s fortunes around.
What are your thoughts on his tenure so far? Do you believe in the long-term process, or are you concerned about the immediate results?