‘Not the right time’ – Kaizer Chiefs warned against Eric Tinkler

Former Kaizer Chiefs winger Junior Khanye has voiced his strong opinion that Pitso Mosimane is the only coach suitable for the club, cautioning that Eric Tinkler would likely face the same challenges others have had.

Tinkler became available after parting ways with Sekhukhune United by mutual consent on Monday. His departure is reportedly linked to the club’s failure to secure a top-three league finish and meet its trophy targets. His assistants have been placed in charge for the remainder of the season.

With Chiefs actively searching for an experienced manager for the upcoming season, Tinkler’s name has been mentioned as a potential candidate. The former Bafana Bafana international has a notable coaching pedigree, including a stint at Soweto rivals Orlando Pirates.

However, Khanye believes the timing is wrong for Tinkler to take the helm at Naturena.

Why Tinkler would struggle at Naturena

“I love Tinkler with all my heart, but this is not the right time for him to go to Kaizer Chiefs,” Khanye told KickOff.“The only coach that can help Chiefs now is Pitso Mosimane. In fact, he should already be communicating with them so that he can draft his requirements for next season. You need a high-profile coach at Chiefs.”

Khanye argued that the club requires a manager with the authority to demand necessary changes from the management in order to compete with Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates.

“Chiefs need a coach who will tell the management what needs to be done,” he explained. “They should start speaking to their next coach now so that he is able to start watching their remaining games.”

The outspoken analyst also defended Tinkler’s recent record, suggesting his struggles were due to circumstances beyond his control.

Ex-Kaizer Chiefs winger defends tactician

“I like Tinkler because I understand why he couldn’t succeed at Cape Town City. They sold many of their players but didn’t replace them with the same quality,” Khanye added. “He went to Sekhukhune United, and they are fifth on the log table as we speak. He would have challenged for the league next season.”

Khanye fears that if Tinkler were to join Amakhosi, he would be judged harshly based on his recent departures and not given the respect or resources needed to succeed.

“He will get there, lose two or three league games, and not win the MTN8, and he will be immediately put under pressure. He will experience the same situation that was experienced by Johnson,” Khanye warned. “I don’t think they will respect Tinkler enough to give him an open chequebook.”

Ultimately, Khanye insisted that Chiefs need a coach with a proven track record of winning major titles, including the league and the Champions League, and who possesses the “arrogance” to command respect and get the best out of his players.