Is Stuart Baxter back in the fold for Kaizer Chiefs?

Kaizer Chiefs need a new manager and Stuart Baxter’s name has resurfaced. After all, he was the last manager to win silverware for the Soweto giants.

Is Stuart Baxter still a candidate for Kaizer Chiefs?

Stuart Baxter is a PSL veteran. He coached Chiefs for two stints, as well as SuperSport United. The 70-year-old has won eight domestic trophies in South Africa including three league titles. The Scotsman parted ways with Helsingborgs in December of 2023 who currently play in the second tier of Swedish football. He is still unattached.

“I have gotten to know HIF in a completely different way this year than I did before,” Baxter told the club’s media following his departure.

“When we played the Europa League and cup finals, the atmosphere was one and when a big threat of another relegation was staring us in the face, it was another,” said Baxter as per iDiski Times.

“I got to see the supporters take on a completely different role this year than when we played European matches and finals. They were loyal, showed the way and were a great support when we needed them. It was therefore fitting that in the end, it was they who helped us over the line.

“I want to thank all the players, those who supported and everyone who in some way helped us through this tough season,” said the English coach.

Former Chiefs coach Stuart Baxter has a new job. Photo: Muzi Ntombela/BackpagePix

Trophy drought started after Baxter left

Perhaps it’s a coincidence, but the last time Amakhosi hoisted silverware of any kind aloft was under the tutelage of Stuart Baxter. That was the 2014-15 DStv Premiership crown, a title they also won in 2013 under the same manager.

Take your pick who might eventually succeed interim coach Cavin Johnson and become the permanent Kaizer Chiefs boss. Pitso Mosimane, Alex Gallo, Vanderlei Luxemburgo, Nasreddine Nabi, Raul Caneda, Rui Vitoria and Manqoba Mngqithi have all been mentioned as possible candidates. Our writer also has a theory around Sekhukhune’s Lehlohonolo Seema. However, we’re no closer to knowing the identity of the man Amakhosi’s board will entrust with the responsibility.

“I think Raul Caneda is suitable for Chiefs, we’ve tried our own products but failed. So better go for import.” – said one South African reader, referring to the club’s insistence on backing South African bosses, an approach which hasn’t yielded results in recent years.

The Kaizer Chiefs Naturena Village in all its glory. Image: Ernest Makhaya

Would you welcome Baxter back at the club or has that ship sailed?

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