Chippa swing axe again: Eymael out, Vilakazi returns to hot seat

Chippa United FC have once again pulled the trigger on their coaching staff, announcing the departure of Luc Eymael and the immediate re-appointment of Vusi Kanu Vilakazi.

Eymael’s tenure with the Chilli Boys lasted a mere seven games, yielding just one victory, two draws, and four defeats. This poor run culminated in the club sitting precariously at the bottom of the Betway Premiership table.

The final straw for the notoriously impatient club owner, Siviwe Mpengesi, appeared to be the 2-1 loss to Marumo Gallants last Sunday, a result that followed a humiliating exit from the Carling Knockout Cup.

Chippa Sack Eymael After Seven Games, Bring Back Vilakazi

“Chippa United FC confirms a mutual separation with Head Coach Luc Eymael. We thank him for his professionalism and wish him all the best in his future endeavours,” stated Sporting Director Sinesipho Mali.

🚨 CLUB ANNOUNCEMENT 🚨

Chippa United FC confirms a mutual separation with Head Coach Luc Eymael. We thank him for his professionalism and wish him all the best in his future endeavours.

We are pleased to welcome back Kanu Vilakazi as the new Head Coach. Familiar with our… pic.twitter.com/JMTusLdMjW

— Chippa United FC (@ChippaUnitedFC) October 22, 2025

The Gqeberha-based club wasted no time, immediately ushering in Kanu Vilakazi, who returns for a second stint. Vilakazi’s previous spell at the club was similarly brief, lasting just three months.

“We are pleased to welcome back Kanu Vilakazi as the new head coach. Familiar with our club’s values and ambitions, he is well-placed to lead us forward in the Betway Premiership League,” Mali added.

Vilakazi faces a formidable task: lifting Chippa United off the foot of the table and saving them from a potential relegation battle. He becomes the third coach to take charge this season, following Sinethemba Badela, who was dismissed after just two matches, and the recently departed Belgian, Eymael.