Cape Town City coach Muhsin Ertugral reacted strongly to suggestions that his coaching style might be outdated, given his over 20 years of experience in South African football.

Ertugral defended his credentials, stating that he served as the technical advisor for the Turkish national team before joining Cape Town City in January, following the dismissal of Eric Tinkler.

He further emphasized his recent involvement with FIFA, working as part of the FIFA Technical Study Group during the FIFA World Cup and European Championship held in Germany in June and July.

Ertugral’s qualifications were questioned after City’s 2-1 defeat to Orlando Pirates in the Betway Premiership at Orlando Stadium on Saturday, which extended their away winless streak to five matches since his appointment.

Notably, City has not defeated Orlando Pirates at Orlando Stadium since John Comitis acquired the club’s status from Mpumalanga Black Aces and rebranded it ahead of the 2016/17 season.

The loss to Pirates marked Cape Town City’s third consecutive league defeat, dropping them to 10th place in the Betway Premiership table with 21 points after 19 matches.

“You’re being a bit biased. Did you check what I did?” Ertugral asked.

“I was the head (technical advisor) of the Turkish national team. What does that mean? Sorry.”

“I was the head of the Turkish national team. Do you think I’m out of touch with international football? What are you saying?”

“I’m trying to understand. I haven’t been directly on the field, but I was heavily involved in two European Championships, and World Cup qualifiers, and worked with the best players in the world.”

“So, does that mean I’m out of the game? That question is a bit biased. I won’t answer it.”

As Orlando Pirates’ media officer, Thandi Merafe, intervened, allowing only one final question, Ertugral continued, “Unbelievable,” with a wry laugh.

After a pause, seemingly triggered, Ertugral continued, “Which coach came here from overseas, come from the national team (that is working in the PSL currently?)   

“There are some stripes here. Google a bit back, there’s seven trophies in my cabinet. 

“Seven trophies. So, I can lecture you a bit better. I was doing that for the Turkish national team. I was not out of the game; I think this was disrespectful of what you said.” 

Among the trophies Ertugral referenced are the CAF Confederations Cup with Kaizer Chiefs in 2001, the Absa Cup with Ajax Cape Town in 2007, the Telkom Knockout in 2007/08, and the MTN8 in the 2008/09 season, all with Kaizer Chiefs.

Upon his arrival at Cape Town City, Ertugral secured victories against his former clubs, Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates, and was awarded the January Coach of the Month award.

However, since his appointment, Cape Town City has won only three matches, drawn two, and lost six in ten games. They are now winless in their last six matches across all competitions.

At the end of the season, Ertugral will transition to the club’s technical director role.