Kaizer Chiefs Must Return to Their Roots to Reclaim Their Glory

“You can’t just sign players because they’re free agents or have potential.” – Coach Farouk Khan. For over a decade, Kaizer Chiefs have wandered in the footballing wilderness, drifting further from the club’s once-feared reputation as the standard-bearer of South African football. Despite moments of excitement, such as their recent Nedbank Cup victory, Amakhosi remain a shadow of their former selves. At the centre of their decline lies a deeply flawed recruitment strategy—one that, according to veteran coach and talent developer Farouk Khan, has drifted far from the club’s historic roots.

Farouk Khan, Director: Stars of Africa Football Academy

Losing the Kaizer Chiefs Identity

In an interview on Inside SA Soccer with Bra Jakes, Khan, who has both served within Chiefs and scouted talent for decades, laid bare the truth: Chiefs no longer scout with the discipline, detail, and understanding that once set them apart. “In the past, we knew what a Kaizer Chiefs player looked like. Now, that identity is gone,” Khan said. The club’s recent signings—players like Flavio Silva (from Indonesia), Ethan Chislett (from England’s lower leagues), and Nkanyiso Shinga (from Portugal)—reflect an approach that feels disconnected from tradition. While they may prove themselves on the field, Khan questions whether the signings align with a coherent playing philosophy.

Ethan Chislet

“Signing players is one thing. Signing the right players is another. Chiefs can’t afford failed signings anymore.”

The Forgotten Art of Scouting

Khan recalls the old days when recruiting a player meant far more than watching a few highlight clips. It required weeks—often months—of observation. He would visit families, talk to teachers and coaches, and understand the personal background of each prospect. “It was never just about talent. We wanted to know who the player really was—how he handles pressure, how he was raised.” That careful diligence, he believes, has disappeared. Instead, Chiefs appear to have adopted a reactive approach—plugging gaps instead of strategically reinforcing the squad. The result? A revolving door of players who never quite fit the jersey.

The Missing Piece: Structure

Khan believes the root of the problem lies in structure—or rather, the lack thereof.

“They need a technical director—someone with real experience who understands the club’s model and can guide recruitment beyond the coach.”

He points to Mamelodi Sundowns as a shining example of modern football structure. Their technical team is expansive: a director of football, head of scouting, analysts, psychologists, and more. At Sundowns, nothing is left to chance. Chiefs, by contrast, have allowed grey areas to fester. Decisions are made in isolation. Coaches come and go. Philosophies change from season to season. Continuity has been sacrificed.

“You can’t rebuild every year. Chiefs need a blueprint that survives coaches.”

Foreign Coaches, Local Disconnect

Khan also touched on the impact of foreign coaches, many of whom fail to grasp the unique cultural fabric of South African football. “They don’t understand the environment. Our players are different—they need a coach who knows what makes them tick.”

This disconnect, Khan argues, has diluted the Chiefs playing style. The flair, the showmanship, the "glamour boy" swagger—has faded. In its place is uncertainty.

Still, he believes in giving current coach Nasreddine Nabi another season—provided he is supported by people who understand the South African game. “Good coaches fail when they don’t have the right support. Nabi needs help, not pressure.”

Preseason Plans and Poor Timing

Chiefs are currently in the Netherlands for preseason, facing top European sides. Khan sees this as a vital moment to prepare both physically and mentally. But he warns: the value of such tours depends on having the right players involved. “Your new signings must be there from day one. You can’t add players after preseason—it defeats the purpose.”

He urges the club to move quickly and decisively in the transfer market. Delays in recruitment cost clubs not only time but tactical readiness.

Fans Are Losing Patience

Chiefs have now failed to finish in the top eight for two consecutive seasons—a scenario unthinkable just 15 years ago. “This is still the most supported club in the country,” Khan said. “But that support can’t keep waiting forever.” The fans, once known for their loyalty and fire, have been patient. But patience, Khan warns, wears thin. And without a visible, structured plan in place, even the most loyal will begin to drift.

Back to the Future

So, what is the way forward?

Khan’s message is clear: return to the club’s foundational values. Build a technical structure that supports long-term growth. Create a strong pipeline from the youth academy. Scout smarter. Rebuild the identity. “Stop rebuilding from scratch every season. Develop from within. Align your technical, admin, and coaching staff around one philosophy.”

The blueprint doesn’t need to be invented—it simply needs to be rediscovered.

“Chiefs once led the way. They can again. But only if they go back to who they are.”

The Legacy at Stake

Kaizer Chiefs isn’t just another club. It’s a national institution—a name that resonates far beyond South African borders. When Chiefs succeed, South African football thrives.

Coach Farouk Khan, who has helped shape that legacy, wants to see it restored.

“It’s not just about winning one trophy. It’s about sustained excellence. Chiefs must rise again—for their fans, for their history, and for South African football.