Toyota Cup: Former Kaizer Chiefs Star Slams Nasreddine Nabi for Mthethwa, Cele Combination
- Nasreddine Nabi has been criticised by Kaizer Chiefs former player for fielding Thabo Cele and Sibongiseni Mthethwa against Asante Kotoko
- The Tunisian tactician was unable to lead the Glamour Boys to victory against the Ghanaian side in the Toyota Cup over the weekend
- The Soweto giants were also blamed for not signing Sipho Mbule on a free transfer ahead of Orlando Pirates this summer
Former Kaizer Chiefs star Junior Khanye has criticised Nasreddine Nabi for the midfield pairing of Thabo Cele and Sibongiseni Mthethwa against Asante Kotoko in the Toyota Cup.
The Glamour Boys were defeated on penalties by the Ghanaian side with newly named captain of the club Inacio Miguel missing from the spot twice in the match.
Source: Getty Images
Kaizer Chiefs also lost against Yanga SC in the Toyota Cup last season, which means Nabi is yet to win the competition since arriving at the club last summer.
Khanye blasts Nabi for pairing Cele and Mthethwa
Speaking on iDiski TV, Junior Khanye voiced his concern about Kaizer Chiefs’ midfield setup—specifically the No.6 role currently occupied by Sibongiseni Mthethwa and Siyethemba Sithebe (Cele).
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“The No.6 position is a major concern for me. Mthethwa and Cele, in my view, lack the strong character required to succeed at a club like Chiefs,” Khanye said.
He argued that talent alone isn't enough to thrive in the Chiefs midfield and questioned the chemistry between the two players.
“For me, talent alone doesn’t cut it. I don’t see a real combination between Cele and Mthethwa. If your midfield isn’t functioning with at least two or three players linking up well, it’s a problem. It’s almost like playing with five centre-backs when Mthethwa is on the pitch.”
Khanye went on to critique the technical shortcomings he sees in both players and emphasised why he believes the club made a mistake in not signing Sipho Mbule, who joined their city rivals Orlando Pirates this summer.
“Mthethwa doesn’t look comfortable on the ball. He doesn’t demand it, lacks awareness, and technically, I find him poor. As for Cele, he seems like a good player at first glance, but I don’t think he handles tight spaces well, he’s not on Mbule’s level.”
He concluded by stressing what Chiefs need in that role:
“They need a proper No.6, a holding midfielder with talent and strong character, like Mbule. I really believe Chiefs missed an opportunity by not signing him.”
Kaizer Chiefs would prepare for the start of the Betway Premiership as they won't be taking part in the MTN8 competition after missing out on top eight finish in the league last campaign.
Chiefs urged to sign Tau and Sundowns star
Briefly News also reported that Kaizer Chiefs have been advised to consider signing Percy Tau and a Mamelodi Sundowns star this summer.
The Premier Soccer League giants have been active in the transfer market this summer, but need more experienced players in their squad.
Proofreading by Kelly Lippke, copy editor at Briefly.co.za.
Source: Briefly News
