Joseph Malongoane calls for patience as Kaizer Chiefs' co-coaches adjust to SA football realities

Since taking over from Nasreddine Nabi, the duo has managed just four wins in 13 matches, with performances often failing to convince both fans and analysts. But Malongoane believes the technical team's struggles are part of a natural adjustment process, one every top coach goes through when stepping into a new football culture.

Speaking to FARPost, the man affectionately known as ‘Tight' stressed that a coach's true understanding of players extends far beyond training sessions — and that South African footballers, in particular, present nuances that require time to study.

"You know, Chiefs has one of the best managers in South Africa," he said. "They would not hire the wrong coaches. The results might not be good, but we must respect their decision. We need to give the coaches time."

Malongoane even referenced global examples to drive his point home. "Even Pep Guardiola did not win the league in his first season with Manchester City. We must just give the coaches time until they get used to the country and the South African players. Playing football does not start and end on the pitch."

He explained that some players shine during the week only to disappear under stadium pressure, while others look unconvincing at training yet turn into match-winners when it matters most. One such example, he recalled, was Mogakolodi Ngele.

"At training, you'd never think of selecting him. He falls all over the field and loses challenges, but come game day, ‘Tsotso' delivers — scores goals, creates assists. Coaches need to learn small things like this in South Africa."

Malongoane believes that once Ben Youssef and Kaze fully grasp these dynamics, their tactical ideas will begin to translate into results — and Chiefs fans will eventually see the team's true potential.