This approach marks a significant shift from Chiefs' traditional practice of integrating local members into the coaching staff, a strategy that has seen varying degrees of success in the past.
Malesela expressed his reservations on Arena Sports hosted by Timeslive, highlighting the importance of local knowledge in navigating the complexities of PSL football.
"When somebody comes you need to be really sure that this is the right person. How is (Nabi) going to adjust without any local influence, without anybody guiding and helping him as to what the culture of Chiefs is? That might be a problem," Malesela was quoted on Arena Sports.
He further emphasized the high expectations at a club like Chiefs, where success is measured not just by performance but also by trophies.
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"I'm not saying that he would fail or setting him up for failure. I'm just saying things that he should be prepared for and also how patient are people going to be with him because you don't go to Kaizer Chiefs to trial."
"You go to Chiefs to win and appease people, one trophy there, build your team. Now you have to get a mixture of players because when you go to Chiefs you must know you can not go for new players completely," Malesela added, underscoring the challenges Nabi might face without local insights.
Currently, Amakhosi are conducting their pre-season camp in Turkey. This period will be crucial for Nabi to establish his methods and start moulding the team according to his own vision.
The decision to operate without local assistants is a bold move that could redefine the dynamics within the Soweto giants. As Chiefs prepare for the upcoming season, the effectiveness of Nabi's foreign assistants will be closely scrutinised, not only by the fans but also by former players, and coaches like Malesela.