Posted in Features, News on Jul 13, 2026.
Amakhosi’s new head coach, Fernando Da Cruz has set his sights on improving on last season’s third-place finish in the league as the Club began its pre-season training camp in Spain with a 1-1 draw against Scottish giants, Rangers, on Sunday.
The French-born tactician was with Amakhosi for a short time in 2024 and is delighted to return to take the reins of such a majestic institution.
“I have received a very warm welcome, which I appreciate. I took pleasure in my work, and the people at Naturena, so I am happy to be back at the great Club,” he says.
“The Kaizer Chiefs Village at Naturena has all the facilities needed to do a good job. It is in very good condition, the pitch, the gym etc. I have a good feeling about it,” the 54-year-old continues.
Da Cruz arrives at Chiefs with a steely determination to compete for the biggest prizes on offer.
“I am grateful to the Chairman, Dr. Kaizer Motaung and the Sporting Director, Kaizer Motaung Jr. for expressing confidence in me and I will give my level best to do a good job. I am totally committed to Kaizer Chiefs,” he states, adding, “I know I am working for the biggest Club in the country, one with a lot of fans all over Africa, not just South Africa. I want us to start the season well to give our millions of fans a good feeling, because they deserve it, and have a good season and challenge for titles.”
The Amakhosi squad is currently on a pre-season tour of Spain, where they are readying themselves for a gruelling 2026/27 domestic campaign, as well as on the continent in the CAF Confederation Cup.
“The conditions for the camp in Spain are excellent. The weather is very hot and we have three challenging friendly games, which I believe is good preparation for us,” Coach Da Cruz says.
Etiosa Ighodaro gave Amakhosi the lead against Rangers, before the Scottish side equalised in the 89th minute in a match that saw numerous personnel changes during the 90 minutes. Next up is a clash with Saudi Pro-League team, Al Kholood on Wednesday, followed b the final game of the tour against Spanish La Liga outfit, Elche, on Saturday.
An upbeat Coach Da Cruz emphasises the importance of the Amakhosi Faithful to the team, inviting them to be a key part of the journey upon which they are about to embark.
“I hope all the fans will be behind the team to help us have a good season. We will try our best to win silverware and we need our supporters to help us make that happen,” he concludes.
