Kaizer Chiefs could face a demanding season both domestically and in continental competition, according to former Amakhosi coach Sergio Dos Santos.
The retired coach has questioned whether the current Chiefs squad has enough strength and consistency to compete for major honours, particularly with the club preparing for a CAF Confederation Cup campaign.
Chiefs finished third in the Betway Premiership last season, securing their place in continental football. However, Dos Santos believes their recent performances have raised questions about how they will cope with the additional demands of playing in Africa.
‘How are they going to win the CAF Confederation Cup?’
Dos Santos pointed to Chiefs’ performances in South African football as a concern.
Speaking to KickOff, the former coach argued that if Amakhosi are finding domestic competition difficult, the challenge could become even greater when they face unfamiliar opponents away from home in continental competition.
He also highlighted the physical and logistical demands associated with playing African club football.
“African teams might not know how to plan for them, but still, playing in Africa is never easy.”
According to Dos Santos, Chiefs will need to show considerable improvement if they are to challenge for continental silverware.
What is missing at Kaizer Chiefs?
The former coach also questioned whether the current squad has the necessary balance to compete consistently for trophies.
Dos Santos suggested that Chiefs have previously been viewed as a team with too many inexperienced players, but he believes there are broader issues that still need to be addressed.
He stopped short of identifying one specific problem, instead arguing that something remains absent from the current squad’s overall makeup.
His assessment comes as Chiefs prepare to balance their domestic campaign with the demands of the CAF Confederation Cup.
A busy season ahead for Amakhosi
Playing on two fronts will test the depth of Fernando Da Cruz’s squad.
Chiefs will need to manage domestic fixtures while also dealing with travel, unfamiliar opponents and the intensity of continental competition.
Their supporters will be hoping that the team can turn criticism into motivation and produce stronger performances as the season progresses.
For now, Dos Santos’ comments have added another talking point around the club.
Can Kaizer Chiefs prove their former coach wrong and compete for silverware on both fronts this season?
