Five Contributions Caneda Can Bring to Chiefs

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.