Bobby Responds To Ben Youssef On Unfair Fixture Congestion
Kaizer Chiefs football manager Bobby Motaung has responded to coach Khalil Ben Youssef’s concerns about the congested fixture schedule, saying the club must embrace the demanding run of matches.
Ben Youssef criticised the Premier Soccer League for what he believes is unfair treatment regarding congested fixtures, pointing out that the PSL does not do enough to support South African clubs competing in the CAF Champions League and the CAF Confederation Cup.
This attack comes after their Sunday’s 2-1 win over Egyptian side Al Masry in their CAF Confederation Cup Group D fixture at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium.
Motaung has contradicted Ben Youssef’s remarks, noting that the coach is speaking from a technical perspective rather than from the business side of the club, where matches need to be played for their supporters.
“He is speaking from a coach’s point of view, but obviously from a club’s point of view, the challenge we have is the sponsorship; we need to compete and service our supporters,” said Motaung.
“But looking at the business we are in now, it is challenging even in the world; it’s also the same, but the league has to survive, so we need to play as many games as possible to service our supporters.
“If you’re playing in Africa, not all supporters are going to travel, but the league here services those supporters and their needs. We need to create a balance, and that’s why squads need to have depth,” Motaung stated.
“Unfortunately, the coaches and players feel the brunt, but in terms of the business itself, the league needs to sustain itself, and we need competition. We need sponsors, and we need to play.”
Motaung also emphasized what he believes is the main reason behind the Glamour Boys’ improved performances this season.
“I think it’s the planning and the consistency that we kept, the technical stuff and the planning last season and this season in terms of player positions,” said Motaung.
“And looking at the type of quality players we have right now, it’s not easy for some who started this season, and some started last season; it was not easy for them either. We are not yet where we want to be in terms of scoring those goals that we need and achieving what we want to achieve, but if you look at us keeping the technical stuff and managing the squad, it has helped us a lot.
“Even for the future, looking at the generation that we have right now, is a young generation. They really need to be given time and be patient with them. But keeping the technical stuff was more important,” Motaung added.
