The Frenchman, who was briefly assistant coach under Nasreddine Nabi two years ago, returns to Naturena in the hot seat as he tries to build on a third-place finish in the Betway Premiership last season and guide the team in the CAF Confederation Cup.
“I’m very happy to be here,” Da Cruz said. “The club has always held a special place in my heart, and I’ve kept a close eye on its journey over the past two years. Kaizer Chiefs is a massive institution with passionate supporters and a proud history.
“My focus now is on building a strong connection with the players, instilling a winning mentality, and working together to achieve the success our fans deserve.
“The journey ahead will demand hard work and unity, but I’m confident we will rise to the challenge.”
Da Cruz also addressed the players at training as they begin building towards the new season.
“I am excited to get started,” he told them. “I understand what this club stands for, its history and its future. I think we need to create the new ambition for the club.
“It is a big team in Africa, and we want to win with a good attitude and mentality. We must work hard and go step by step.”
The fixtures for the new Betway Premiership season should be released soon, with Chiefs set to face Lamontville Golden Arrows in the quarter-finals of the MTN8.
