Durban City: We Need An Experienced Coach

Durban City have officially confirmed the departure of head coach Sinethemba Badela, stating that the club requires a more experienced coach with 13 league matches remaining in the season.

While the club has not yet announced Badela’s replacement, all indications suggest that technical director Ernst Middendorp could be the man to step in, given his vast coaching experience.

Badela spent just 44 days in charge of Durban City after being appointed on 26 December to replace Gavin Hunt.

The former Chippa United coach oversaw three matches during his brief tenure, recording two wins and one defeat. His final match in charge was against Chippa United in the Nedbank Cup round of 32 on Friday.

Durban City FC Announces Departure of Head Coach Sinethemba Badela Durban City FC confirms that the Club has mutually agreed to part ways with Head Coach Sinethemba Badela, with immediate effect. 

This decision is not a reflection of match results, nor does it detract from the professionalism, dedication, and commitment demonstrated by Coach Badela during his tenure. The Club acknowledges and sincerely appreciates his contribution, particularly his role in introducing a modern footballing philosophy and cultivating a strong, values-driven culture within the squad.  

His approach was aligned with the Club’s long-term vision and developmental objectives. 

Following a comprehensive internal review, the Club concluded that the time required to fully embed this philosophy was not compatible with the immediate competitive demands of the current campaign.  

With thirteen critical fixtures remaining in the season, the environment requires a level of experience, operational readiness, and short-term stability to navigate the pressures both on and off the pitch. 

Durban City FC extends its sincere gratitude to Coach Badela for his professionalism and contribution and wishes him every success in his future endeavours. 

The Club will communicate interim coaching arrangements and the process regarding the appointment of a new Head Coach in due course. 

Durban City FC thanks its supporters, partners, and the wider Durban football community for their continued loyalty, patience, and belief in the Club’s direction.  

The Club remains fully committed to building a strong, competitive, and proudly Durban football institution.

It remains to be seen who will take charge when Durban City host TS Galaxy at Chatsworth Stadium on Friday.