The 54-year-old, born in France and holding a UEFA Pro Licence, is no stranger to Naturena. He worked briefly with Chiefs during pre-season two years ago before leaving to take up the role of Technical Director with the Moroccan Football Federation, a position he held until the end of June.
Da Cruz brings significant pedigree to the role. His coaching journey includes three separate spells at French giants Lille, where he worked under Marcelo Bielsa and helped develop future stars including Victor Osimhen, Eden Hazard, Idrissa Gueye and Lucas Digne.
Chiefs appoint Fernando da Cruz as head coach
Kaizer Chiefs are pleased to confirm the appointment of Fernando da Cruz as Head Coach. He has signed a two-year contract with a one-year option, effective 1 July 2026.
Born in France, Da Cruz comes highly qualified with a UEFA Pro… pic.twitter.com/NKnLfha7oH
— Kaizer Chiefs (@KaizerChiefs) June 17, 2026
He later guided AS FAR Rabat to the Moroccan Botola League title in the 2022-23 season, cementing his reputation as a coach capable of building successful sides.
He replaces co-coaches Cedric Kaze and Khalil Ben Youssef, who guided Chiefs to a third-place finish in the Betway Premiership last season following Nasreddine Nabi’s departure.
Joining Da Cruz at Naturena will be 35-year-old Egyptian assistant coach Mahmoud Abbas, while Frenchman Julien Le Heran takes charge of the sports science department.
Chiefs will be hoping the new technical structure can deliver the consistency that has eluded the Soweto giants in recent seasons.
Photo: Vincent Van Doornick/Isosport/MB Media/Getty Images
