Kaizer Chiefs have reportedly been offered Spanish coach Raul Caneda, who
is believed to have close ties to Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola.
PSLSA looks at five factors that suggest Caneda could be the man to take
Chiefs to the next level.
1. Transformation
Caneda has a proven track record of transforming clubs. During his first
managerial job at Saudi Arabian giants Al Ittihad, he went 25 games
unbeaten from his first game in charge, a record at the club. He then
moved to Al Nassr, where he had a streak of 12 wins out of 13 as a new
coach.
2. Continental focus
Pitso Mosimane’s success at Mamelodi Sundowns was largely down to his
ability to change the South African players’ mentality around the CAF
Champions League. Caneda also did well in the Asia Champions League with
Al Ittihad, reaching the semi-finals after knocking out Chinese giants
Guangzhou Evergrande in the quarter-finals.
3. High expertise in analysis of opposition
Caneda was appointed external analyst/scout of the opposition by Guardiola
during his time at Barcelona and Manchester City, demonstrating his
ability to analyse the opposition. This is a key factor in the modern game
and Chiefs could benefit from a shake up in their backroom staff.
4. Youth focus
Caneda was previously the Youth co-ordinator for the Real Madrid Football
School between 2002 and 2003. Chiefs have invested heavily in their youth
structures and Caneda could align with their vision.
5. Philosophy
Caneda’s philosophy is based around two tactical revolutions in football,
with Arrigo Sacchi and Johan Cruyff. Sacchi changed the Italian game with
his high defensive line and high pressing, while Cruyff is renowned for
his philosophy of controlling the game. Chiefs have spoken about returning
to the Kaizer Chiefs way and Caneda could be the man to help them do that.
