Kaizer Chiefs Sporting Director Kaizer Motaung Jr. has reaffirmed the club’s support for head coach Fernando Da Cruz following the team’s elimination from the CAF Confederation Cup.
The 57-year-old coach has come under pressure after Amakhosi suffered an early exit from the competition on Friday evening, raising questions about his future at the club.
However, Motaung has moved to back Da Cruz, insisting that the coach and his technical team retain the club’s trust as they work towards achieving long-term success.
Motaung backs Da Cruz to succeed at Kaizer Chiefs
In a statement, the Chiefs sporting director expressed confidence in Da Cruz and his technical team, highlighting their commitment to implementing the club’s football philosophy and development pathway.
“As a Club, we would like to reaffirm our full support for, and confidence in, the Head Coach and the entire technical team,” the statement read.
“They continue to have our trust as they lead the implementation of a football philosophy and development pathway that we firmly believe will bring sustainable success.
“Their professionalism, work ethic, and commitment to improving the team every day remain irreproachable.
“The team is fighting hard every game to uphold a high standard of performance, and yesterday, despite the result and the injuries we carry, that warrior spirit was visible on the field.”
Da Cruz faces pressure after early cup exits
Motaung announced Da Cruz’s appointment in June after Kaizer Chiefs parted ways with Khalil Ben Youssef and Cedric Kaze.
Since taking charge, the Frenchman has overseen the club’s elimination from both the MTN8 and the CAF Confederation Cup, with Amakhosi failing to progress beyond the early stages of either competition.
The latest setback is likely to intensify scrutiny of Da Cruz’s tenure, particularly given the expectations surrounding the Soweto giants.
Kaizer Chiefs out of two cup competitions
Despite their disappointing cup campaigns, Chiefs remain fourth in the Betway Premiership after eight matches.
With Motaung publicly reaffirming the club’s backing, Da Cruz will now be expected to translate that confidence into improved results as Chiefs look to get their season back on track.