Kaizer Chiefs coach Fernando Da Cruz reiterated his stance that great achievements require time, drawing parallels with how two leading global clubs waited a long time for their triumph.
In recent weeks, Da Cruz has been under intense public scrutiny due to the lack of consistency in his team's performance. Currently, the team is experiencing a four-match winless streak, which includes three consecutive draws in the league and a recent defeat in a continental tournament.
The 1-0 loss to 'Red Arrows' in the first match of the group stage play-offs of the Confederation Cup put Chiefs in a difficult position, forcing the team to aim for a turnaround in the second match at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Friday evening.
Despite the growing pressure, Da Cruz remains hopeful of restoring the club's former glory and bringing joy back to the fans, citing examples from English and French giants who endured long periods of stagnation before achieving success.
Da Cruz reminded everyone: 'I will take the example of Arsenal – it took them seven years with Mikel Arteta to win the Premier League title. And Paris Saint-Germain spent 14 years to win the UEFA Champions League after acquiring Qatar Sports Investments (QSI).' He concluded: 'Therefore, when you want to build a project, it takes time. It doesn't happen overnight.'
Not everyone agrees that Da Cruz should be given time to fix the situation, as some fans have already lost patience. Nevertheless, the French tactical mind remains unfazed.
Da Cruz stated: 'Everyone is free to think what they want, but for us, the most important thing is to focus on the project and continue developing the club. Once again, everyone has the right to their opinion – they are free to express it.'
Amid the team's difficulties, there have been reports of a potential decline in Da Cruz's authority in the dressing room. This occurred particularly after a conflict erupted between goalkeeper Renaldo Liner and defender Riv Froesler over the weekend in Ndole, requiring intervention. However, one of the captains, Inacioa Miguel, refused to participate in administrative or managerial discussions.
Miguel emphasized: 'As a player, I am completely focused on the game, on the 90 minutes and daily training. What happens off the pitch is not my concern. Out of respect for the club, I cannot talk about it. My concentration is strictly directed towards the game and what I can contribute to the team.'