Former Kaizer Chiefs defender Fabian McCarthy believes his former club’s lack of competitive matches could give them an edge this coming season, as teams have not seen them in action.

Chiefs, having not finished in the top eight last season, have been less competitive, allowing their new coach Nasreddine Nabi more time to integrate new players and acclimate to the new environment.

Amakhosi finished 10th in the Betway Premiership last term, leading to the departure of Molefe Ntseki and caretaker Cavin Johnson, prompting the appointment of Nabi.

The Tunisian coach has been backed in the transfer market, signing players like Bongani Sam, Rushwin Dortley, Fiacre Ntwari, Gaston Sirino, Bradley Cross, Inacio Miguel, and Njabulo Blom (on loan from St. Louis City) to improve on last season’s performance.

“It gives them a slight edge,” McCarthy told Sportswie when asked if Chiefs’ lack of competitive matches is beneficial.

“While it’s helpful for analyzing and planning against teams, it can also be a disadvantage as you haven’t had competitive games to identify and fix issues.

“In today’s game, perhaps a slight advantage. But competitively, physically, and mentally, you’re at a disadvantage because you’re not involved. You want to be involved because at the end of the season, you want to be in the top eight and competing for trophies.”

Chiefs will kick off the 2024/25 Betway season away against Marumo Gallants at Toyota Stadium on Saturday. Gallants themselves have their own challenges integrating many players following their acquisition of Moroka Swallows.

Like Chiefs, Gallants have a new coach in Dan Malesela, who, unlike Nabi, is a seasoned veteran in the PSL.

McCarthy, who won two league titles along with an array of domestic trophies with the Soweto giants, is concerned about the game being played in Bloemfontein, as Chiefs have negative memories from being heavily defeated by Tanzanian side Yanga Africans by 4-0 at the same venue during the offseason.

“Going back to Bloemfontein, knowing in the back of your mind that you got beaten 4-0 and playing against a team with nothing to lose and everything to gain, it’s going to be tough,” said McCarthy.

“But I believe in the Khosi Fans and the Khosi Nation. We see them, and they’ve been eager to watch the team, get results, and put smiles on their faces. That’s what it’s all about for Chiefs supporters.”