Middendorp likely to replace Badela at City

Late on Monday, Durban City unexpectedly parted ways with their head coach, Sinethemba Badela, who joined the club just two weeks ago. City is expected to announce an interim coach very soon. Sources attached to the club believe the well-travelled and current technical director Ernst Middendorp is likely to be revealed as the caretaker coach until the end of the season.

Although many have viewed this as a shocking move; however parting ways with Badela has been done as an early precaution to make sure that the team stays in the elite league, The Citizens said in an official statement, adding that the club has mutually agreed to part ways with Badela with immediate effect. The club statement explained that the decision was not a reflection of match results, nor does it detract from the professionalism, dedication, and commitment demonstrated by the coach during his tenure. The club said they acknowledged and sincerely appreciated Badela’s contribution, particularly his role in introducing a modern footballing philosophy and cultivating a strong, values-driven culture within the squad.

They also said his approach was aligned with the club’s long-term vision and developmental objectives. “With 13 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,” said the statement.

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The Citizens’ chairperson, Farook Kadodia, said the club felt that Badela was taking longer than expected to settle down and win the changeroom, adding that this may be because of his lack of PSL experience as a coach. “Our aim is not to play to avoid relegation, but to be in the top eight,” said Kadodia. “We all know PSL is ruthless and always a dog-eat-dog situation.” Meanwhile, the Durban City yesterday also announced a landmark strategic partnership with Zimbabwean champions Scottland FC that will strengthen football development, technical collaboration, and commercial growth across Southern Africa.

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