Kaizer Chiefs change pre-season destination?

Kaizer Chiefs look set to conduct their 2026/27 pre-season camp at Pinatar Arena in Spain, contrary to reports suggesting Germany as the destination.

Having geared up for the previous season in Netherlands, Chiefs have now opted for a different direction, with their stay at the Spanish Sports Complex set to run from 10 to 19 July.

Amakhosi will be trained by a new-look technical team led by newly appointed head coach Fernando da Cruz, who signed a two-year deal with an option to extend.

Notably, the Frenchman arrived with Nasreddine Nabi in July 2024 but abruptly cut his stay at Naturena short for a Technical Director role with the Moroccan FA in September.

He has now been entrusted with returning the Soweto giants to the upper echelons of South African football, with the club set to compete on all fronts next season.

Da Cruz will have a chance to assess his squad in pre-season friendly matches in Spain, before facing Zimbabwean champions Scottland FC in the Toyota Cup on home soil.

Chiefs will tackle Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Kholood on 15 July and Spanish La Liga side Elche FC three days later, in what is expected to be high intensity games.

Having finished third in the Betway Premiership under co-coaches Cedric Kaze and Khalil Ben Youssef last season, it remains to be seen how Chiefs will fare with Da Cruz at the helm.

Hlayisani Magoro

Editorfr, en

Football journalist from South Africa covering African football news, exclusive stories and key events while sharing insights with passionate fans of the game.

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