The departure of Nasreddine Nabi from Kaizer Chiefs has created a vacant coaching position at Naturena, sparking considerable speculation regarding his replacement. Among the initial rumors, the prospect of Jose Riveiro taking the helm gained traction, despite his emphatic statements upon leaving South Africa in May. Riveiro, a former Orlando Pirates coach who was recently sacked by Al Ahly after a challenging spell, had explicitly stated, "No, never. Never… Once Always. I will never coach any other team in South Africa. I am a Buccaneer. Orlando Pirates is the only club that I could have the motivation and the courage and energy, and the heart, in this case, to coach in the country. [There is] no doubt." This makes a move to Amakhosi an improbable fantasy for fans.

However, Kaizer Chiefs have wasted no time in their search, reportedly making contact with Portuguese coach Pedro Soares Gonçalves. The 48-year-old has emerged as a prominent figure in African football, having guided Angola to back-to-back COSAFA Cup triumphs, including a decisive 3-0 victory over Bafana Bafana in this year’s final. Gonçalves also led Angola to the AFCON 2023 quarterfinals, showcasing his significant pedigree. He had also reportedly received approaches from Egyptian giants Al Ahly before Kaizer Chiefs entered the fray.

Other coaches have also been linked to the Glamour Boys. Swedish coach Melke Alan expressed his belief that his coaching philosophy and experience would be a valuable asset for the Chiefs in an interview with Soccer Laduma. Locally, former Cape Town City and Orlando Pirates coach Eric Tinkler, currently with Sekhukhune, has emerged as a fan favorite candidate due to his impressive coaching record and stellar playing career, which includes winning AFCON 1996.

Another name frequently mentioned by a section of Amakhosi fans is Pitso Mosimane. Back in 2024, the highly decorated former Mamelodi Sundowns and Al Ahly mastermind had publicly declared his interest and availability for the Kaizer Chiefs job on live television, asking, “Do I want to coach Kaizer Chiefs? Why not? Why not coach Kaizer Chiefs? Why not?” However, the club’s hierarchy opted to hire Nasreddine Nabi instead, making a Mosimane appointment now seem unlikely from a financial and sporting perspective.

Beyond the coaching search, Kaizer Chiefs are undergoing a period of significant change, with potential player exits anticipated before the 22 September transfer deadline. Players like the 23-year-old fan favorite Zwane, who was largely a benchwarmer last season and has yet to make a matchday squad this campaign, face an uncertain future due to doubts over his defensive contributions. Kaizer Motaung Junior has hinted at further departures, signaling a comprehensive overhaul for the club as it seeks stability and silverware.