Da Cruz Reveals Why Quality Alone Is Not Enough for Mayo and Ighodaro at Chiefs

Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando da Cruz has provided an important update on Khanyisa Mayo and new striker Etiosa Ighodaro, explaining why the two forwards are not yet regular options in his attacking department. The coach has made it clear that both players have work to do before they can become important members of his team as Amakhosi look to improve their performances this season.

Mayo arrived at Naturena with high expectations after establishing himself as one of the recognised attacking players in South African football. The former Cape Town City striker was expected to bring quality, experience and goals to the Chiefs attack. However, his involvement has been limited as he continues to work towards reaching the level of fitness required to compete regularly.

Chiefs supporters have been waiting to see more of Mayo, especially considering the quality he showed before joining the Soweto giants. However, Da Cruz does not want to rush the striker’s return because he understands the physical demands of playing at the highest level. The coach believes Mayo is getting closer to being ready, but he must first be in a position to handle the intensity of the matches.

“Mayo is not far, he’s a quality player but for this game he was not physically ready to play this type of game, he must walk into the game, and with Ighodaro, he needs to understand the game model, so we’ll work with him,” Da Cruz said.

Meanwhile, Ighodaro is another player who could give Chiefs more options in the attacking department. The Nigerian striker has joined the club with the responsibility of helping the team become more dangerous in front of goal. However, Da Cruz believes he still needs time to understand the team’s playing style and tactical approach before he can become a regular option.

The coach is not questioning the striker’s quality but wants him to understand what is expected of him within the team. This includes how Chiefs build their attacks, press opponents and respond to different situations during matches.

Da Cruz also used Orlando Pirates as an example when explaining why physical condition and squad depth are important. The Chiefs coach believes his team must be prepared to compete against opponents who have quality players coming off the bench, particularly during the final stages of matches.

“He can be another solution… when we play teams like Pirates, we need to be physically ready, you see the last 20 minutes, they are full of intensity, they introduce fresh players with quality, so we must be ready,” Da Cruz added.

His comments suggest that Chiefs are working towards building a squad capable of maintaining its intensity throughout the entire 90 minutes. Having players who can make a difference from the bench will be important as the season continues.

For now, Mayo must continue working towards full fitness, while Ighodaro needs to become comfortable with the coach’s system. Both forwards could become valuable options for Amakhosi, but Da Cruz appears determined to give them the time they need rather than rushing their involvement.

Thaboalpheus21 feedback-opera-news-app@opera.com