While fans await the official club announcement, insiders reveal that the deal is locked in. Da Cruz is expected to arrive with his own backroom staff to spearhead the pre-season camp.
| Detail | Specifications |
| Contract Duration | 2 Years (Plus 1-year extension option) |
| System Profile | Tactical, possession-based 4-2-3-1 |
| Immediate Objective | Build on last season’s 3rd-place finish & prepare for the CAF Confederation Cup |
| Key Pre-Season Deadline | Squad regroups June 22 ahead of a July training tour in Germany |
A Familiar Face with Unfinished Business
This isn’t Da Cruz’s first time walking through the doors at Naturena.
- The Nabi Era Connection: In 2024, Da Cruz was brought in as part of Nasreddine Nabi’s technical team during the initial phases of the club’s rebuild.
- The Short Exit: His first stint was cut short when he accepted an elite technical operations and development role with the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF).
- The Lasting Impression: Despite his brief stay, his meticulous training sessions, professional standards, and intense tactical drills left a massive impression on the Chiefs’ hierarchy.
Now that his chapter in Morocco is closed, the Amakhosi management has handed him the keys to the first team.
Who is Fernando Da Cruz?
The incoming Amakhosi boss brings a unique blend of European discipline and African continent expertise:
- Youth & Development Roots: A UEFA Pro Licence holder, Da Cruz started his journey as the captain of the French national futsal team before moving into scouting and academy development for Ligue 1 side LOSC Lille.
- Belgian Experience: He served as an assistant and interim head coach at Belgian top-flight club Royal Excel Mouscron.
- Moroccan Glory: His most successful head coaching stint came at AS FAR Rabat, where he initially directed the academy before taking the top job and steering the club to the 2022/23 Botola Pro league title.
With the squad rebuilding under new signings like defender Thabo Moloisane, Da Cruz’s background in player development makes him the ideal architect for the Chiefs’ long-term vision.
