Arthur Zwane talks up about the abuse of coaching Kaizer Chiefs and revealed the negative impact it had on his family.
New AmaZulu co-coach Zwane candidly discussed the emotional toll his tenure as Chiefs head coach took on his family. Appointed in 2022, Zwane faced immense pressure and scrutiny throughout his time at the club. Despite guiding Chiefs to a respectable fifth-place finish in the Betway Premiership and securing key victories against rivals Orlando Pirates, Zwane endured verbal abuse and even physical threats from some fans.
A challenging transition from Chiefs
Zwane’s successor, Molefi Ntseki, encountered similar hostility, leading to his dismissal just months into the role. Now, alongside co-coach Vusi Vilakazi at AmaZulu, Zwane reflects on the challenges he faced and the impact on his loved ones.
“Obviously after I was redeployed, I think I needed a break,” Zwane told Sportswire. He explained how working with young players and aligning the various divisions revived his energy, allowing him to move past the negativity. “That helped big time. So, about what people were saying, that is part of the game. I don’t take it personally because I understand it comes with a package.”
Educating His children on football realities
Zwane highlighted the need to educate his children about the harsh realities of professional football. “The only people who got affected more were your kids,” he admitted. “So, it affected my kids, but not me because I have been in the game for many years. I had to make them aware of the situation that ‘this is where your father is, and you have to understand.’”
He emphasized the importance of supporting their father, regardless of the team’s performance. “If your father wins, you are also celebrating. So, now it comes with this when results are not forthcoming.”
AmaZulu’s first match under Zwane
Zwane and Vilakazi will lead AmaZulu into their first match together in the Carling Knockout round of 16 against Stellenbosch at Moses Mabhida Stadium this Friday. The co-coaches are eager to turn a new page and contribute to the team’s success, leaving behind the challenges of their past roles.
Kaizer Chiefs supporters will show you their love when you win but can turn toxic when you lose. Right now, everything looks promising as the team re-energizes under new head coach Nasreddine Nabi. However, if the coach doesn’t secure the players he wants and fails to bring home a trophy, the mood around this iconic South African giant could shift dramatically. Only time will tell what happens next.
Stay tuned with The South African as Arthur Zwane talks about the struggles of coaching Kaizer Chiefs.
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