Cardoso replaces Manqoba Mngqithi after a short as the head coach role following the departure of Rulani Mokwena at the end of last season.
He comes with his three of his assistants Fabio Fernandes, Pedro Azevedo and João Araújo. Local coaches Steve Komphela and Kennedy Mweene will remain as part of the Club’s new technical team.
“It is a big privilege and I am happy to be here. This is a club with big heritage. I’m entering a club with a huge identity. I will do my best to make the people happy and represent them in the best way,” Cardoso told reporters.
“I am a simple man, but I’m demanding. I want to win always. I want to win trophies, I want to contribute to the heritage (of the club). I want to be remembered among the good coaches from the club when I leave like Pitso Mosimane, Rulani, Steve Komphela and Manqoba.”, he added.
Cardoso, 52, has previously managed Rio Ave in Portugal, French side Nantes, Celta Vigo in Spain and Greek Super League outfit AEK Athens.
He was most recently in charge of Tunisian club Esperance, who he led to the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League final in 2023-24, where they narrowly lost 1-0 on aggregate to Al Ahly. Cardoso left Esperance in October.
