Fresh off a season where Kaizer Chiefs celebrated lifting the Nedbank Cup but slumped to a disappointing ninth-place finish in the Betway Premiership, coach Nasreddine Nabi is stepping into the new campaign with the weight of expectation squarely on his shoulders.
Now, with the 2025/26 season fast approaching, the message from the club is clear: last year’s effort won’t cut it this time.
Club Demands Two Trophies and a Strong League Push
Sources close to the club say that management has issued a very straightforward challenge to Nabi—win at least two trophies this season.
More than that, there’s a strong push for a top-three finish, which would secure a coveted spot in next year’s CAF Champions League.
“The thinking is simple,” the source explained. “You won one trophy last season—now we want two.
Fight for the league. Make it into the Champions League. That’s non-negotiable.”
The source also shared that while the team dreams of going all the way in continental competition, a semi-final finish in Africa would be the minimum acceptable target if things get tough.
Big Moves in the Transfer Market Show Chiefs Mean Business
To help Nabi deliver on these hefty demands, Kaizer Chiefs have gone all-in during the transfer window.
The club has already secured the signings of Thabiso Monyane, Paseka Mako, Nkanyiso Shinga, Ethan Chislett, Sphesihle Ndlovu, and Portuguese striker Flavio Silva.
But they’re not done yet.
The club is reportedly eyeing Cape Town Spurs talents Asanele Velebhayi and Luke Baartman, although ongoing legal matters are said to be slowing those deals down.
Mamelodi Sundowns’ striker Etiosa Ighodaro is another key target, as Chiefs look to boost their firepower up front.
Investment Comes with Expectations
The aggressive recruitment strategy isn’t just about building depth—it’s about making a statement.
Chiefs’ top brass believe that this level of investment should lead to real, tangible success.
Simply put, the board has backed Nabi, and now they want to see results.
This isn’t just about lifting trophies; it’s about restoring Kaizer Chiefs’ status as one of Africa’s elite clubs—a team feared both at home and on the continent.
Can Amakhosi Deliver on Their Lofty Ambitions?
The question now is whether this new-look Chiefs side can rise to the challenge.
Can they walk away from this season with two pieces of silverware? Can they secure a Champions League spot and go deep in the tournament?
Only time will tell. But one thing is certain—the pressure is on at Naturena.