Despite growing speculation and mounting pressure from a section of Kaizer Chiefs fans, Rulani Mokwena has firmly distanced himself from any talks of taking over at Naturena — and instead, he’s come out in full support of current head coach Nasreddine Nabi.
Mokwena, who is currently without a job after his short spell in Morocco, has been linked with a return to the PSL, with Chiefs emerging as one of the names thrown into the mix by hopeful supporters. Some fans believe the Nabi project has fallen short, especially after the club failed to secure a top-eight finish in the DStv Premiership — extending their trophy drought and testing the patience of the Amakhosi faithful.
However, Mokwena has poured cold water on those links, choosing not to fan the flames of speculation. Speaking to Marawa Sports Worldwide, the former Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates coach made it clear that his name should not be tied to a position that is already filled.
“It can’t be about Kaizer Chiefs because they’ve got a coach,” Mokwena stated. “Yes, it’s a massive club, and expectations are always high. But winning the Nedbank Cup the way they did — going through big teams and ending a decade-long trophy drought — that deserves recognition.”
Mokwena went on to highlight the importance of credit and patience in the coaching world, insisting that Coach Nabi has earned the right to continue building his vision at Kaizer Chiefs.
“Sometimes as coaches, we just need that bit of support, that belief,” Mokwena added. “Coach Nabi has done well enough to be given that chance to continue resurrecting Chiefs.”
With the dust yet to settle on Kaizer Chiefs’ challenging season, Mokwena’s comments offer a surprising twist — one that calls for stability rather than change, even as his own name continues to dominate coaching speculation.
