CAF
Mihlali Baleka|Published
Kaizer Chiefs coach Fernando da Cruz has reiterated that Rome was not built in a day, drawing parallels with how two of the world's top clubs had to endure long waits before tasting ultimate success.
Da Cruz has come under scrutiny in recent weeks as his side has failed to maintain consistency, currently enduring a four-match winless streak following three consecutive league draws and a recent continental defeat.
The 1-0 loss to Red Arrows in the first leg of the CAF Confederation Cup group stage playoff qualifier put Chiefs on the back foot, forcing them to turn the tide in the return leg at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Friday night.
Despite the mounting pressure, Da Cruz remains hopeful of restoring the club's glory days and bringing smiles back to the supporters, citing English and French giants who suffered lengthy droughts before achieving success.
“I will give an example with Arsenal – it took seven years with Mikel Arteta to win the Premier League title. It took 14 years for Paris Saint-Germain to win the UEFA Champions League after the Qatar Sports Investments (QSI) takeover,” Da Cruz recalled. “So, when you want to build a project, it takes time. It doesn't happen overnight.”
Not everyone believes Da Cruz should be given time to turn things around, as some supporters have already lost patience. However, the French tactical mind remains unfazed.
“Everyone is free to think what they want, but the most important thing for us is to focus on the project and continue developing the club,” Da Cruz said. “Once again, everyone is entitled to their opinion – they are free to express it.”
Amid the team’s struggles, reports have suggested that Da Cruz may be losing the dressing room, particularly after tempers flared in Ndola last weekend when goalkeeper Renaldo Leaner and defender Reeve Frosler had to be separated following an on-pitch altercation. However, one of the captains, Inacioa Miguel, refused to be drawn into administrative or management discussions.
“As a player, I am fully focused on the game, the 90 minutes, and training every day,” Miguel said. “What happens on the side is not something I focus on. Out of respect for the club, I cannot speak about that. My focus is strictly on the game and what I can contribute to the team.”