Mzansi celebrities react to Kaizer Chiefs coach Nasreddine Nabi’s sudden exit

Kaizer Chiefs’ head coach Nasreddine Nabi’s departure has sent shockwaves through South African football.

Fans and celebrities alike have taken to social media to share their reactions, reflecting on Nabi’s impact and debating what his exit means for the club’s future.

The reactions intensified following Chiefs’ 3-1 defeat to Sekhukhune United at FNB Stadium on Tuesday, September 16. This marked Chiefs’ first league loss of the season and sparked criticism of Nabi’s tactics and leadership.

Multiple sources have reported that Chiefs and Nabi have mutually agreed to part ways. The decision follows unresolved licensing issues related to Nabi's UEFA Pro Licence, as well as strained relations and increasing mistrust between Nabi and the club’s management.

An official statement from Chiefs has not been released.

Speaking to North African news platform “WinWin”, as reported by “IOL Sport”, Nabi said: "My separation from Kaizer Chiefs was a mutual agreement with the club's management, following a successful and challenging experience.

"Currently, I need some time to rest, focus more on my family, and monitor my wife's health, which has required me to be by her side over the past period.”

Fans and celebrities took to social media to express their thoughts.

Actor Wiseman Mncube wrote on Facebook: “Sibongile bafo (We are thankful, brother). Hamba kahle (Go well). Angazi nokuthi ngizongena kanjani egym today eeey (I don’t even know how I’m going to get into the gym today).”

DJ and producer Oscar Mbo, in a now-deleted post, criticised the licensing situation, writing: “So embarrassing that this man’s coaching licence expired in 2023.”

Radio presenter Tshatha commented: “Ahambe angabe esabheka emuva (He must go and never look back).”

Chiefs appointed Nabi as head coach of the men’s senior team in July 2024, signing a two-year contract with an option to extend.

Sporting director Kaizer Motaung Jr. said at the time: “After what has been a fairly exhaustive vetting process, it gives us great pleasure to finally welcome our new head coach to Kaizer Chiefs."

"We believe we have found the right man to fulfil our vision of restoring Amakhosi to our rightful place at the top of the football pyramid. We welcome coach Nabi and his technical team with the pledge of unity and support in pursuit of our common goal.”

During his tenure, Nabi led Chiefs to notable achievements, including winning the Nedbank Cup in the 2024–25 season.

He also played a key role in integrating young players into the senior squad, providing opportunities for local talent to develop.