Betway Premiership side Durban City reconstruct technical bench

In a significant reshuffle aimed at salvaging their Betway Premiership campaign, Durban City FC have appointed Sinethemba Badela as their new head coach.

The tactical overhaul, announced on Friday is further bolstered by the high-profile return of Ernst Middendorp, who rejoins the club in his former capacity as Technical Director.

The double appointment comes in the wake of Gavin Hunt’s recent departure—a move the board described as a “strategic pivot” necessitated by a shift in the club’s long-term footballing objectives. While Pitso Dladla had been holding the reins on an interim basis, the club has opted for a “modern and progressive” direction by securing Badela’s services.

Perhaps the most intriguing development is the reappointment of Ernst Middendorp. The veteran German tactician previously served as the club’s Technical Director but exited at the start of the season following a widely reported “clash of ideas” with Gavin Hunt.

With Hunt now gone, the board has moved quickly to restore Middendorp’s oversight, signaling a return to the structural philosophy that defined the club prior to Hunt’s arrival.

A Second Chance for Badela in the Betway Premiership

For Sinethemba Badela, the move represents a swift return to the top flight. The former Mamelodi Sundowns coach began the current season at the helm of Chippa United, only to be casualty of a public fallout with then-Technical Director Sinesipho Mali.

“Durban City FC is pleased to announce the appointment of Sinethemba Badela as the club’s new Head Coach,” reads the club statement. “Coach Badela brings valuable Betway Premiershipexperience and a modern, progressive approach to the game, with a strong focus on youth development.

“We welcome him to the Citizens family as we continue to build towards an exciting future. Welcome to Durban City, Coach Badela.

The club has opted for continuity within the supporting staff. Pitso Dladla will revert to his role as assistant coach, while former Bafana Bafana international Rowen Fernandez remains the goalkeeper coach.

The reshuffle also extends to the developmental ranks, where Ashraf Hendricks has been named the new DStv Diski Challenge (DDC) head coach, succeeding Daine Klate.

With Badela’s tactical acumen and Middendorp’s experienced oversight, Durban City will be hoping this new technical synergy can propel them up the Betway Premiership standings.