Kaizer Chiefs’ hunt for a new head coach has taken another intriguing twist, with Belgian tactician Sven Vandenbroeck now emerging as a serious contender for the hot seat at Naturena.
Amakhosi officially confirmed the departures of co-coaches Khalil Ben Youssef and Cedric Kaze, along with conditioning coach Majdi Safi, as the club prepares for a major technical overhaul ahead of the 2026/27 season.
While former Mamelodi Sundowns mentor Manqoba Mngqithi had heavily been linked with the position in recent weeks, reports now suggest Chiefs are casting their net wider in search of a coach capable of restoring the club to its former glory.
According to Kick Off, Vandenbroeck has been shortlisted for the vacant position, with contact already believed to have taken place between the two parties.
“According to sources close to Chiefs, former Wydad AC and CR Belouizdad coach Sven Vandenbroeck has been shortlisted for the now vacant position ahead of the new season,” the publication reported.
A source quoted in the report added: “There are a number of coaches that have been linked to the head coach position at Kaizer Chiefs. There has been contact with one Belgian coach (Vandenbroeck) and there are chances that he might join Chiefs.”
The 46-year-old boasts one of the strongest coaching CVs among the names currently linked with Amakhosi.
Vandenbroeck is a UEFA Pro Licence holder and has enjoyed success across both Africa and Europe. He previously coached Tanzanian giants Simba SC, Moroccan powerhouse Wydad AC and Algerian side CR Belouizdad, collecting league titles and domestic silverware along the way.
He is perhaps best known in South African football circles for his close working relationship with Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos. The pair famously guided Cameroon to the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations title, where Vandenbroeck served as assistant coach.
His experience working in different football cultures and structures could make him an attractive option for Chiefs Sporting Director Kaizer Motaung Jr., who is believed to be leading the search for the club’s next mentor.
Chiefs are desperate to build on a season that saw them finish third in the Betway Premiership, while also narrowly missing out on a CAF Confederation Cup knockout spot.
With pre-season preparations fast approaching, supporters are eagerly waiting to see who will be entrusted with leading one of the biggest clubs on the continent into a new era.
