He Is Not Ready: Panic in Camp as Coach Exposes the Shöcking Reason Behind Sudden Drop

Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando Da Cruz has explained why Nigerian striker Etiosa Ighodaro has struggled to secure regular playing time at Naturena, revealing that the 25-year-old is still adapting to the team’s tactical approach.

Ighodaro arrived at Amakhosi with expectations of strengthening the club’s attacking options. However, the forward has yet to establish himself as a regular member of the starting line-up, leaving supporters wondering why he has not been given more opportunities.

Da Cruz has now provided an explanation, making it clear that the striker needs to develop a better understanding of the team’s playing philosophy before he can become a more prominent figure in the squad.

Speaking about the striker’s limited involvement, Da Cruz explained that Ighodaro’s age and adjustment to the team’s playing style have presented challenges.

“Ighodaro is 25 years old, so it’s difficult for him to assimilate the way we play,” Da Cruz stated through a translator.

The Chiefs coach further explained that the Nigerian forward currently lacks a sufficient understanding of the team’s game model.

“At the moment, he has a lack of understanding of the game-model. We work with him, and he could be another solution, but right now he’s not ready,” Da Cruz added.

His comments suggest that Ighodaro’s limited opportunities are primarily linked to tactical adaptation rather than a definitive judgement on his overall ability.

The coaching staff will continue working with the striker to help him understand what is expected of him within the team’s system.

Ighodaro’s situation comes at a time when Kaizer Chiefs are looking for greater consistency in front of goal.

Amakhosi have faced difficulties turning their attacking opportunities into results, increasing the pressure on the team’s forwards to deliver when given opportunities.

The Nigerian striker could provide another option in attack if he successfully adapts to Da Cruz’s tactical demands. However, the coach appears unwilling to rush the process before the player demonstrates sufficient understanding of the system.

For Ighodaro, the immediate challenge is to use training sessions to improve his positioning, movement and decision-making within the team’s structure.

Although Da Cruz has acknowledged that the striker is not currently ready for a bigger role, he has also indicated that Ighodaro could become a useful alternative in the future.

That leaves the door open for the Nigerian forward to work his way back into contention through consistent progress on the training ground.

Meanwhile, Chiefs must balance their need for immediate results with the longer-term development of players who are still adapting to the coach’s methods.

For supporters, the major question is whether Ighodaro can make the necessary improvements and eventually become the attacking solution Amakhosi need.

His future involvement will depend on how quickly he adapts to Da Cruz’s expectations and convinces the technical team that he is ready for greater responsibility.

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