Da Cruz embraces pressure as Kaizer Chiefs boss amid growing scrutiny

Fernando Da Cruz says he places pressure on himself every day as the Kaizer Chiefs manager faces increasing doubts from sections of the media and supporters.

Da Cruz was speaking before Friday’s must-win CAF Confederation Cup fixture, with expectations mounting around his role at Amakhosi.

The manager said he had understood the demands of the job from the moment he took charge and accepted responsibility for meeting the standards expected at the club.

“From the day I took this job, I knew the pressure was very high and I put pressure on myself every day because I demand high standards of myself,” he said.

Da Cruz added that the team was working to improve gradually and urged supporters to remain behind the players.

“We try, step by step, to improve our level to what we expect and what the fans expect,” he said. “I am completely focused on the team because what is most important is to make the fans happy.”

The manager also acknowledged that injuries had affected his tenure but insisted they could not be used to excuse the team’s performances.

“I understand that fans can be disappointed but it is always important to analyse the context; we have some important players out injured,” Da Cruz said.

“It’s not an excuse, but it is a fact and that should be kept in mind. We need our supporters behind us to push us and, on our side, to stay focused on our job, the football.”

Kaizer Chiefs must now secure a positive result in Friday’s CAF Confederation Cup match as Da Cruz attempts to ease the pressure surrounding his position.