EXCLUSIVE: Experienced former Togo coach Paulo Duarte ready for 'competitive PSL' & tips Kaizer Chiefs to get back to the top! Makes choice between Amakhosi and Orlando Pirates

Former Togo coach Paul Duarte has amassed versatile experience as a player and coach.

At just 55, he has coached some big teams like Le Mans, Sfaxien on the club level, and the likes of Gabon, Burkina Faso - twice, and most recently Togo in international football.

Last year, he was in charge of the Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Kholood Club.

The former defender is now interested in coaching in the Premier Soccer League.

Have a look at what he told GOAL in an exclusive interview.

"The PSL is a very competitive league, although the Sundowns have had dominance in recent years. However, the battle for the spots that guarantee qualification for international competitions remains very intense," Duarte responded.

"I follow it, although not as frequently as I would like. I have a busy schedule, attending hundreds of games every year.

"It's not easy to stay on top of everything, but my enthusiasm for world football and South African football remains strong."

Pirates have been doing relatively well this season and are 15 points behind leaders and defending champions Sundowns who have played four games more. The Portuguese has shared his mind on this season's race.

"It’s not easy, as the recent history and titles of the Sundowns provide a significant advantage. What is easier for them, due to their years of success and stability, is attracting the best players, both young and experienced.

"In football, hegemonies are always difficult to combat, but the Pirates have the resources to grow and compete in the long term.

"It’s a huge club, one of the biggest in Africa, with a rich history and also great potential. It would be good for South African football to have an Orlando Pirates team regularly fighting for the championship title."

Kaizer Chiefs have gone for a decade without silverware, but Duarte believes they are on course to greatness.

"Recently, there has indeed been a significant gap. However, I believe that with a well-structured project, strategic signings, and consistent leadership, they can return to being a dominant force in the league," he added.

"Their fan base is immense, and they will have the support they need to align all the factors and succeed."

Amakhosi and Bucs are the most followed and supported clubs in Mzansi. It will be any coach's wish to coach either of the Soweto giants and Duarte has made his preference.

"It wouldn’t be ethical for me to take a stance on which club I would choose. Coaching in the PSL would be a privilege, especially in one of the most iconic clubs in the country. I’ve been close to coaching in South Africa, even in negotiations.

"However, for me, the most important thing is that the project has value. I am not just interested in contracts but in good projects with potential and stability.

"I have also received offers from all over Africa, valuing the work I’ve been doing, and if an opportunity arises in South Africa with a project I believe in and that aligns with my philosophy, it would be a tempting proposal," Duarte concluded.

It is highly unlikely that Chiefs coach Nasreddine Nabi will leave the Glamour Boys at the end of the season despite the team's struggles.

However, Bucs coach Jose Riveiro's current deal expires after the conclusion of the 2024/25 season.

So far, no deal has been reached and Duarte should maybe give it a shot.