CAPE TOWN - New Kaizer Chiefs coach Giovanni Solinas has warned expectant AmaKhosi fans that it will take time to restore the club’s faded glory “because one can’t change too much overnight”.
Solinas was appointed on July 13, after three trophy-less seasons under Steve Komphela came to an end in April when the former Bafana Bafana defender resigned in the immediate aftermath of the riots at Moses Mabhida Stadium following the Nedbank Cup final. “I know the expectations are very high,” Solinas told the Kaizer Chiefs website. “In football you need time, because one can’t change too much overnight.”
The Italian was forced to watch all of the side’s pre-season games from the stands because his work permit was only granted on Tuesday, and will take charge for the first time when Chiefs open their season against Mamelodi Sundowns.
“I am busy implementing my philosophy of football, which is attacking football,” Solinas continued. “That takes time and that’s a reality. We have to be patient. But I am extremely happy with the attitude, the commitment and the focus of the players at training. We are working hard to improve the tactics, fitness and psychological approach.”
The 50-year-old, who had two previous spells coaching in the PSL (both with Free State Stars), has also coached Algerian clubs ES Setif and MC Oran and Saudi Arabian club Al-Faisaly FC. Solinas added that even Alex Ferguson needed time to build Manchester United into a winning team.
“To prepare a winning team takes time,” he said. “That’s not an excuse, that’s the nature of football. I know that the supporters want to win trophies and that’s what we all want. That comes with pressure, but that’s no problem. I am used to pressure. We are working hard to fulfill the fans’ wish to get a trophy. We will fight for our jersey, our colours and our badge to defend our honour.”
Coach Update
Coach Giovanni Solinas has received his work permit and will be sitting on the bench for the opening fixture of the 2018/19 Absa Premiership season. #HailTheChief #Amakhosi4Life pic.twitter.com/0eK3zdIXp0