Latest news with #Zghal
The South African
23-07-2025
- Sport
- The South African
Kaizer Chiefs cut ties with man after pre-season in Netherlands
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. 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.' 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? Let us know by leaving a comment below or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X, and Bluesky for the latest news.
The South African
18-07-2025
- Sport
- The South African
Spotted: Firas Zghal with Kaizer Chiefs
Kaizer Chiefs players worked with a strength and conditioning specialist in the Netherlands, courtesy of head coach Nasreddine Nabi. Zghal stepped in after the team's regular conditioning coach, Majdi Safi, who is at Naturena with the rest of the squad, after he was unable to travel with the club. Hailing from Tunisia, Zghal holds a position as associate professor at the University of Paris‑Saclay and brings extensive academic and practical expertise to the role. Another Orlando Pirates player joins PSL newcomers The new man has authored over 30 research papers on topics including neuromuscular performance, exercise science, and football-specific conditioning. News Orlando Pirates superstar told not to relax Zghal's resume also includes previous collaboration with coach Nabi, stretching back to their work together at Al Ahly SC in Libya around 2013. His temporary appointment with Kaizer Chiefs during the Apeldoorn camp reflects that longstanding professional connection. In the meantime, Kaizer Chiefs are preparing for a trip home before the new Betway Premiership season kicks off in August. The Glamour Boys will first battle Ghanaian giants Asante Kotoko in the Toyota Cup on Saturday, July 26, at the Moses Mabhida Stadium. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
