Chiefs secure Fernando da Cruz for upcoming seasons

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Kaizer Chiefs has officially announced the hiring of Fernando da Cruz as their new head coach.

He has officially entered into a two-year contract that includes an additional one-year extension option. This agreement is set to commence on 1 July 2026.

Da Cruz, who brings a wealth of experience and tactical knowledge, is expected to lead the team with a fresh perspective and strategic direction.

The 54-year-old replaces co-coaches Cedric Kaze and Khalil Ben Youssef, who took over the reins from Raja Casablanca coach Nasreddine Nabi last season.

According to the Naturena-based outfit, the French-born mentor brings a wealth of experience to the Soweto giants and possesses an impressive level of qualification, holding a UEFA Pro Licence.

This credential is recognized as the highest coaching certification available in the realm of football, underscoring his expertise and suitability for the role.

The club revealed that Da Cruz had a brief tenure with them during the preseason two years prior to his involvement with the Moroccan Football Federation.

There, he held the position of technical director until the end of June. He is set to officially assume responsibilities at Amakhosi at the beginning of July.

“His remarkable coaching journey includes three separate stints at French powerhouse Lille, where he worked under renowned Argentine manager Marcelo Bielsa and helped nurture future international stars such as Idrissa Gueye, Lucas Digne, Victor Osimhen, and Eden Hazard.

Chiefs appoint Fernando da Cruz as head coach

Kaizer Chiefs are pleased to confirm the appointment of Fernando da Cruz as Head Coach. He has signed a two-year contract with a one-year option, effective 1 July 2026.

Born in France, Da Cruz comes highly qualified with a UEFA Pro… pic.twitter.com/NKnLfha7oH

— Kaizer Chiefs (@KaizerChiefs) June 17, 2026

“Da Cruz’s success, however, extends beyond Europe. In the 2022/23 season, he impressively guided AS FAR to the Moroccan Botola League title, cementing his reputation as a proven winner.

“His strong background in youth development and academy structures aligns neatly with Chiefs’ long-term vision,” the club said in a statement.

New faces on Chiefs’ technical bench

Da Cruz will be joined by 35-year-old Egyptian Mahmoud Abbas as his assistant coach and countryman Julien Le Heran as his sports scientist.

ALSO READ | Official: Kaizer Chiefs part ways with coaches Ben Youssef and Kaze

The club further announced that the squad returns to training on Thursday, with Abbas expected to oversee things ahead of Da Cruz’s arrival in two weeks.

Amakhosi are expected to make more announcements of player signings and departures in the coming days.