Kaizer Chiefs confirm amicable split with Nasreddine Nabi despite ending 10-year drought with Nedbank Cup

Kaizer Chiefs have confirmed the departure of head coach Nasreddine Nabi by mutual consent, ending a tenure that saw the Tunisian tactician restore pride and deliver the club’s first trophy in 10 years.

In a joint statement released on Friday, both parties announced they had “mutually agreed to conclude their professional relationship on an amicable basis” following what Chiefs described as constructive engagements.

“The Parties recognise the importance of this decision being communicated in respectful and positive terms, reflecting the mutual regard maintained throughout their employment relationship,” the club said.

Nabi, who joined Amakhosi at the beginning of the 2024/25 campaign, brought an immediate sense of structure and identity to a team that had long struggled for direction. Under his guidance, Chiefs lifted the Nedbank Cup — their first piece of silverware since 2015 — and secured a return to continental competition.

“Kaizer Chiefs FC acknowledges and thanks Coach Nabi for his contribution during his tenure with the Club and extends best wishes for his continued success in future endeavours,” the statement added.

Nabi, in turn, expressed his gratitude to the Soweto giants and their supporters.

“Coach Nabi conveys his appreciation to Kaizer Chiefs FC, its leadership, staff, players, and supporters for their commitment and support during his time at the Club,” it concluded.

While the decision marks the end of a short but memorable chapter, Chiefs have moved swiftly to ensure stability within their technical team.

In a club update issued shortly after the announcement, the club confirmed that Khalil Ben Youssef and Cedric Kaze will take charge of the team for the remainder of the 2025/26 Betway Premiership season.

“Following the announcement earlier today of a mutual parting of ways between Kaizer Chiefs FC and Head Coach Nasreddine Nabi, the Club can confirm that Coaches Khalil Ben Youssef and Cedric Kaze will lead the technical team for the remainder of the 2025/26 season,” the statement read.

Ben Youssef and Kaze were key members of Nabi’s technical structure, and their continuity is expected to maintain the tactical principles and discipline that the Tunisian introduced at Naturena.

Nabi’s departure, though amicable, leaves Amakhosi facing a delicate period of transition. The team currently sits mid-table in the Betway Premiership, with ambitions of qualifying for continental football again next season.

Still, the Tunisian’s legacy at the club will be remembered for reigniting belief and restoring the competitive edge that had faded over the years. His Nedbank Cup triumph — achieved through a blend of tactical sharpness, discipline, and resilience — offered a glimpse of the Chiefs revival supporters had long yearned for.

As Chiefs turn the page, attention now shifts to Ben Youssef and Kaze to continue the momentum and ensure the club remains on the upward trajectory laid down by Nabi.

Also on Friday, another former Chiefs coach Ernst Middendorp was sacked in his position as a technical director at Durban City. Unconfirmed reports are that Middendorp had a clash with head coach Gavin Hunt. However, speaking to other news outlets, City chairman Farouk Kadodia said Middendorp's short-term contract had come to an end, leading to his departure.