Kaizer Chiefs’ search for a new head coach ahead of the 2026/27 season has generated significant speculation, with several high-profile names linked to the Soweto giants.
However, information gathered by Soccer News 24 suggests that some of the names frequently mentioned in recent weeks are not part of the club’s current recruitment process.
NO APPROACH FOR PITSO MOSIMANE
Despite widespread speculation among supporters, Kaizer Chiefs have not engaged former Mamelodi Sundowns and Al Ahly coach Pitso Mosimane regarding the vacant position.
Mosimane remains one of the most respected coaches on the African continent and is currently available following his departure from Iranian side Esteghlal. The four-time CAF Champions League-winning coach has repeatedly stated that any future move would need to be aligned with a long-term sporting project.
While his name continues to generate excitement among the Amakhosi faithful, Soccer News 24 can confirm that Chiefs have not made contact with Mosimane as part of their current search.
MANQOBA MNGQITHI NOT FORMALLY CONTACTED
Another coach frequently linked with the role is Manqoba Mngqithi. The former Mamelodi Sundowns tactician, who recently guided Golden Arrows, is approaching the end of his current contract and is expected to become available. His track record, which includes multiple league titles and continental experience, naturally makes him an attractive candidate whenever a major coaching position becomes vacant.
However, FARPost understands that Chiefs have not formally engaged Mngqithi regarding the position.
ALEXANDRE DOS SANTOS AMONG COACHES CONTACTED
One coach who has featured in Chiefs’ thinking is Portuguese mentor Alexandre Dos Santos. Dos Santos recently guided Moroccan giants AS FAR Rabat to the CAF Champions League final and remains under contract with the club. He is no stranger to speculation surrounding the Chiefs job, having previously been linked with the Soweto-based side.
Sources indicate that discussions have taken place as Chiefs continue evaluating several options before making a final decision on the club’s technical direction.
FERNANDO DA CRUZ EMERGING AS LEADING CANDIDATE
While the club continues its assessment process, indications increasingly point towards Fernando Da Cruz as the coach Chiefs are leaning towards.
Da Cruz is familiar with the environment at Naturena, having previously worked alongside former head coach Nasreddine Nabi, and departed shortly before the start of the league campaign. During his time at the club, he was credited with helping establish aspects of the playing philosophy and technical structure that Chiefs sought to implement.
Sources close to the situation indicate that discussions between Chiefs and Da Cruz are ongoing, with both parties understood to be positive about the project.
Although no official appointment has been announced, everything currently points towards the French tactician emerging as the frontrunner in the race to become Kaizer Chiefs’ next head coach.
CHIEFS TO TAKE DECISION SOON
With pre-season preparations approaching and the squad expected to regroup later in June, Chiefs are eager to finalise the coaching position to allow sufficient time for planning, recruitment and preparations for the new campaign.
While several names have been linked to the role, the available information suggests the race is narrowing, with Da Cruz currently the strongest contender as Amakhosi move closer to making a crucial appointment.