FORMER Chippa United coach Sinethemba Badela has taken the reigns at Durban City. Sinethemba Badela recently emerged as Durban City’s new head coach after beating competition from former club mentor Simo Dladla and veteran tactician Roger De Sa, as the club opted for a decisive shift in technical direction during the 2025 AFCON break. The appointment follows the exit of Gavin Hunt, whose departure was driven less by results and more by growing ideological differences with the club’s hierarchy.
City’s board believed a change in philosophy was necessary to align the team with its evolving long-term objectives. Timing proved crucial. The AFCON break presented the cleanest window for change, allowing the club to reset without disrupting their Betway Premiership campaign.
While Dladla steadied the ship during his interim spell — including securing a vital win — the role was always under broader review. A co-coaching model between Badela and Dladla was one of the options seriously considered.
