Kaizer Chiefs legend Marks Maponyane has identified a key area where new coach Nasreddine Nabi needs to rethink his strategy, especially when it comes to managing the club’s young players as the new season approaches.
Nabi’s debut as Chiefs’ coach didn’t quite go as planned. On Sunday, the team suffered a crushing 4-0 defeat against Tanzanian giants Young Africans in the inaugural Toyota Cup. This result was a tough pill for the devoted Chiefs fans who filled the Free State Stadium.
Despite the heavy defeat, the match gave Nabi a valuable chance to evaluate the club’s promising young talents.
He gave starting roles to attacking duo Mfundo Vilakazi and Mduduzi Shabalala, while Samkelo Zwane played in midfield and Nkosana Mbuthu was positioned at left-back. Other hopefuls like Wandile Duba, Donay Jansen, and Manqoba Ozoemena were also part of the matchday squad.
Maponyane’s Concerns about Showboating
Maponyane has voiced concerns about some of the young players showing off, especially when the team is struggling. He pointed out Vilakazi’s showboating during the game against Young Africans as an example of this behavior.
“Showboating isn’t really my style.
Some might say it’s part of Mzansi’s flair,” Maponyane shared with Radio2000. “But why do it when the team is down? The coach needs to address this issue.”
Positive Notes Despite the Defeat
On a positive note, Maponyane was impressed by the youngsters, particularly Mbuthu, even though he made a costly error that led to a goal.
“The youngsters did well, especially Mbuthu when he moved into midfield. The coach kept him on and showed faith in him despite the mistake,” Maponyane added.
Looking Ahead to the New Season
Many of the young Chiefs players are expected to get more opportunities in the upcoming 2024/25 season, given Nabi’s preference for nurturing young talent.
Chiefs, who missed out on the MTN8, will kick off their Betway Premiership campaign on Saturday, September 14, against Marumo Gallants in Bloemfontein.
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