Kaizer Chiefs coach Fernando Da Cruz commented on the slow start of Adolph Mtasingwa Bitegeko's career at the club. He noted that the midfielder is still adapting to the new conditions and the coach's tactical requirements.
The 27-year-old defensive midfielder joined Chiefs from Tanzanian club Azam FC at the end of July, just days before the start of the new league season. Since then, Mtasingwa has struggled to find playing time, having played only three matches in all competitions for the Glamour Boys.
Despite the limited playing time potentially raising questions about his place in Da Cruz's plans, the Chiefs coach insists that the midfielder's situation is largely related to his arrival timing and the need to get used to the team's methods.
Da Cruz stated in the media: 'It is related to his adaptation in South Africa, as he arrived a bit late during our pre-season, so he needed time to adapt to our playing model.'
However, the French coach quickly emphasized that Bitegeko remains part of his plans and should receive more opportunities as the match schedule increases. 'But I trust him very much. After the FIFA break, we will play many games, and we will need everyone, and Adolph will get minutes during this period,' Da Cruz added.
Mtasingwa moved to Chiefs after establishing himself as an important player at Azam, where his performances also earned him international recognition with Tanzania. His late arrival at Naturena meant he had less time than some teammates to adjust to Da Cruz's approach, and the coach also had to manage competition for midfield spots.
The upcoming international break may provide Bitegeko with an opportunity to continue working on understanding the Chiefs' system before the intense match schedule. Chiefs will participate in a match against Golden Arrows next Sunday, which will be the last before the first FIFA international break of the season. For Mtasingwa, the immediate goal will be to earn more minutes and use them to demonstrate that he can become a permanent option for Da Cruz as the season progresses.