Division at Naturena: Da Cruz Faces Criticism as Chiefs Management Divided Over Player Selections

October 22, 2026 sportnow Sportswire has discovered that Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando da Cruz is confronted with a growing sense of uncertainty regarding his future at Naturena, as divisions within the club’s management deepen. The mounting frustration among board members is primarily focused on Da Cruz’s tactical decisions, particularly his hesitance to deploy midfielder Nkosingiphile Ngcobo, despite a significant injury crisis affecting the midfield.

The French tactician, who assumed his role at the beginning of the 2026/27 season, is facing severe criticism from fans as the team enters a four-match winless streak across all tournaments.

Amakhosi now prepare for a crucial match against Zambian champions Red Arrows in the second leg of their CAF Confederation Cup preliminary tie at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban this Friday night.

To advance to the Confederation Cup group stage, Chiefs need to overcome a 1-0 deficit from the first leg in Ndola by achieving a victory margin of at least two goals—such as 2-0 or 3-1.

In a press conference held at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Thursday, Da Cruz requested patience during Amakhosi’s challenging period, citing lengthy projects at clubs like Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain as proof that patience can lead to success.

“Consider Arsenal; it took them seven years under Mikel Arteta to win the title,” remarked Da Cruz.

“For Paris Saint-Germain, it took them 13 years [under the Qatar ownership group] to secure a UEFA Champions League title.

“Building a successful project takes time, and it isn’t something that happens overnight.”

(Note: Arsenal ended a 22-year title drought by winning the Premier League in 2025/26, while PSG captured back-to-back UEFA Champions League titles under Luis Enrique after QSI fully acquired the club in the 2024/25 and 2025/26 seasons).

This Friday’s continental encounter initiates a critical week for Da Cruz, as Chiefs are also set to face TS Galaxy in the Round of 16 of the Carling Knockout Cup at FNB Stadium on Tuesday, followed by a Soweto Derby clash against Orlando Pirates at FNB Stadium next weekend.

With escalating pressure, the next few days may be pivotal for the Chiefs coach, who has managed to win only three out of his ten matches at the helm.

“Everyone is entitled to their opinions; however, our primary focus is on the development of our club. Once again, everyone can hold their own views,” said Da Cruz.