Former Wydad AC assistant coach takes over at Chippa United

Sinethemba Badela. Photo credit: Wydad

Chippa United have announced Sinethemba Badela as their new head coach, following his departure from Wydad Casablanca.

Badela takes over from Thabo September, who left the club with his contract set to expire at the end of June 2025.

September guided Chippa United to an 11th-place finish in the Betway Premiership last season after taking over mid-season from Kwanele Kopo.

Badela, on the other hand, spent last season as Rulani Mokwena's assistant coach at Wydad Athletic Club in Morocco, gaining valuable international experience with one of Africa's most decorated clubs. He also worked at Mamelodi Sundowns as their Diski Challenge (reserves) head coach during Mokwena's tenure as the club's mentor.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Chippa expressed their excitement for the upcoming 2025/26 season under Badela's leadership. "We are proud to announce the appointment of Mr Sinethemba Badela as the new Head Coach of Chippa United Football Club," the club said.

"We have built a reputation for giving young and emerging coaches the opportunity to lead, choosing innovation over recycling and purpose over familiarity. Football is evolving, and so are we."

The club further highlighted Badela's international exposure and their commitment to nurturing talent. "Coach Badela brings with him international experience, having served as assistant coach at Wydad AC in Morocco... He now steps into this leadership role with the backing of our club, our supporters, and the province we call home."

As the sole PSL club in the Eastern Cape, Chippa emphasised their role beyond just a football club. "As the only PSL club in the Eastern Cape, we carry not just the hopes of our supporters, but the weight of regional pride. We strive to be more than a club - we are a symbol of possibility, a beacon for talent, and a footballing home for the Pride of the Eastern Cape."

This marks Badela's first appointment as a head coach in top-flight football, having previously worked in the Motsepe Foundation Champions (second division). While the length of his contract has not been disclosed, the club stated that additional members of his technical team will be announced in due course.