Da Cruz explains limited Kaizer Chiefs minutes for Faiz Abrahams

Kaizer Chiefs coach Fernando Da Cruz says Faiz Abrahams’ limited involvement since joining the club is part of a carefully managed introduction, with the manager unwilling to risk the winger’s fitness by selecting him before he is ready.

Abrahams, 21, moved to Kaizer Chiefs from Stellenbosch FC last month on a season-long loan. However, the South African junior international has made only one appearance for the club so far.

His sole outing came in the second half of the 2-2 Betway Premiership draw away to Richards Bay. Abrahams was introduced as a substitute and played for 24 minutes.

The winger was included on the bench for that match, but Da Cruz has stressed that his return to regular competitive football must be handled gradually. Speaking to the media before Kaizer Chiefs’ meeting with Siwelele FC, the coach praised Abrahams’ ability while explaining why he has not yet started a game for the Glamour Boys.

“Faiz is a very good player,” said Da Cruz.

“He has a lot of quality, a lot of mobility, a lot of technical quality, also quality in the cross.

“So for that he was put on the bench against Richards Bay but we want to give him minutes step by step.

“I don’t want to push him too much because we don’t want him to get injured. But he’s adapted very well in our game model.”

Da Cruz’s comments indicate that Abrahams’ lack of game-time is not a reflection of doubts about his talent. Instead, the Kaizer Chiefs coach believes the player should be introduced in stages, allowing him to adjust to the club’s tactical approach without being placed under unnecessary physical pressure.

The forward’s brief appearance against Richards Bay remains his only competitive contribution since arriving at Kaizer Chiefs. Although he was used from the bench, the 24-minute cameo gave him an initial opportunity to work within Da Cruz’s system.

The manager specifically highlighted Abrahams’ mobility, technical quality and ability to deliver crosses. Those attributes were among the reasons he was selected for the match-day squad against Richards Bay, even though Da Cruz opted not to give him a starting role.

Abrahams is now waiting for further opportunities as Kaizer Chiefs prepare to face Siwelele FC. Da Cruz’s message is that the player’s involvement will increase progressively, rather than through an immediate full workload.

The decision also reflects the club’s desire to avoid an injury setback during the winger’s first weeks at Kaizer Chiefs. While Abrahams has yet to make a major impact in terms of minutes played, Da Cruz said he has adapted well to the team’s game model since joining on loan from Stellenbosch FC.