Sekhukhune United defender Daniel Cardoso has explained what he believes is the stumbling block in Kaizer Chiefs pursuit for silverware this season.
The 33-year-old centre-back is one of 13 players whose contract was not renewed at the end of last season by Amakhosi in a list that includes Samir Nurkovic, Lebo Manyama, Benard Parker and Leonardo Castro among others.
The exodus was part of a massive squad renewal to usher in the reign of new head coach Arthur Zwane, characterised by youth that included the likes of Mduduzi Shabalala, Samkelo Zwane, Wandile Duba to name a few.
While Cardoso believes the youngsters are a good foundation for Zwane, the veteran centre-back feels Chiefs do not currently have enough experience to challenge for silverware.
"I don't want to open up a can of worms, but youngsters are not going to win you titles and trophies," said Cardoso.
"They [Chiefs] are in a rebuilding phase, as you can see [with Samkelo] Zwane, Shabalala, [Happy] Mashiane, [Siyabonga] Ngezana. They got rid of all the experienced players."
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The Nedbank Cup is Chiefs last remaining shot at silverware this season, having lost out on both the Dstv Premiership and MTN8 to rivals Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates already.
"If you look at [Mamelodi] Sundowns' team, they're experienced players, that's why they win trophies season in, season out," Cardoso added.
"I think he [Zwane] has a good foundation going on there, but to win titles and to win trophies, I think you need far more experience, especially on the field.
"I mean, they have quite a few experienced players sitting in the stands and at home, and I think it's been missed for them."
Cardoso will meet his former side for the second time this season when Sekhukhune take on Chiefs at Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane on Sunday.
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