Former Kaizer Chiefs coach Muhsin Ertugral’s services are in big demand.
Ertugral, who left Amakhosi last week prior to their final Premier Soccer League fixture last Saturday, has received offers from his native Turkey, Egypt and has the option of staying on in South Africa.
Ertugral guided Chiefs to third place in the Absa Premiership and on Tuesday had nothing but praise for Chiefs and club chairperson Kaizer Motaung, after his sudden departure from the club last week.
Said the Turkish-born coach: ”I have the greatest respect for Kaizer Motaung. It was an honour and privilege working for him and Chiefs, who I believe will win the PSL championship in the not too distant future. I took them to third place and with a few fresh players, the new coach who will take over from me could go all the way and lift the championship. The foundation is there and the fans are fantastic.”
Ertugral is in no rush to find a new job. He has been approached by three Turkish clubs, including Konyaspor. A club in Egypt is also keen to sign him up while Ajax Cape Town, who Ertugral helped win the Absa Cup in 2007 before joining Chiefs, are reportedly keen for him to return.
The Urban Warriors parted ways recently with 39-year-old Craig Roslee, who replaced Ertugral in 2007.
Said Ertugral: ”Ajax have put out feelers only and asked if I was available. But absolutely nothing has been negotiated. I am in no rush. I am enjoying a break and leaving it up to my agent to sort out the job offers.”
Ertugral has worked previously in both Turkey and Egypt and is no stranger to those countries.
But he stated: ”South Africa is my first home now and I would love to stay on and continue working here. But let’s see what develops in the next week or two. I am leaving all my options open.” — Sapa