Da Cruz backs Mtasingwa to make his mark at Kaizer Chiefs

Kaizer Chiefs coach Fernando da Cruz says Adolf Mtasingwa Bitegeko’s limited involvement so far is a result of his late arrival and the midfielder’s ongoing adjustment to life in South Africa.

The 27-year-old defensive midfielder joined Chiefs from Tanzanian club Azam FC in late July, only days before the beginning of the new league campaign.

Mtasingwa has made three appearances in all competitions for the Glamour Boys, according to Transfermarkt, but has yet to secure a regular place in Da Cruz’s starting side.

The coach believes the timing of the player’s arrival disrupted his preparations and left him needing additional time to understand Chiefs’ style of play.

“It is related to his adaptation in South Africa because he arrived a little bit late during our pre-season, so he needed time to adapt in our model game,” Da Cruz told the media.

Despite the midfielder’s slow start, Da Cruz stressed that he remains confident in Mtasingwa’s ability and expects him to receive more opportunities soon.

“But I trust him a lot. After the FIFA break, we will play a lot of games, so we will need everyone and Adolf will get minutes in this period,” he added.

Chiefs are due to play Golden Arrows next Sunday in their final fixture before the FIFA international break.

The upcoming run of matches will give Mtasingwa an opportunity to increase his playing time, continue learning Da Cruz’s methods and make a greater contribution to the team.