Kaizer Chiefs have officially parted ways with strength and conditioning expert Firas Zghal following the club’s recent return from their pre-season tour in the Netherlands.
The club brought in Zghal, a France-based professor and renowned sports scientist, on a short-term basis to lead the squad’s physical preparations in Europe. He temporarily replaced Majdi Safi, who stayed behind in South Africa due to travel-related challenges.
Safi linked with Wydad amid Chiefs absence
While Safi continued working with the group of players who did not travel, rumours circulated linking him with Moroccan giants Wydad Athletic. Despite the speculation, he remains under contract with Amakhosi.
Zghal’s presence proved crucial during the European camp. His long-standing professional relationship with head coach Nasreddine Nabi, which began over a decade ago at Al Ahly Tripoli in Libya, played a key role in ensuring a smooth transition during the club’s five-match friendly schedule.
“Zghal and Nabi first worked together over a decade ago at Al Ahly Tripoli in Libya.”
From the pitch to the lecture hall
Zghal brings a wealth of experience, not just from the touchline, but also from the classroom. At 42, the former Stade Gabèsien and CS M’saken striker currently serves as an associate professor at Paris-Saclay University. With over 30 published research papers in exercise and performance science, Zghal has established himself as a leading figure in sports science.
Despite his value during pre-season, his contract was always meant to be temporary, and his departure follows the plan set out from the beginning of the tour. Safi is now expected to resume his role with the first team as they return to full training in Johannesburg.
The brief collaboration has offered insight into Nabi’s trusted circle of professionals. Which could shape future appointments at Naturena. Chiefs now look ahead to their final preparations for the upcoming season, with the full technical team back in place.
Will Kaizer Chiefs lose Majdi Safi?
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