Durban City Part Ways With Badela After Brief Tenure

Durban City FC have parted ways with head coach Sinethemba Badela after just three matches in charge.

Despite securing two victories from three games and progressing to the Nedbank Cup last 16, the 35-year-old’s stint ended abruptly following a “mutual agreement”, according to a statement released by the club on Monday, 9 February.

The decision stems from a tactical misalignment. While the hierarchy respected Badela’s modern approach, they feared his complex philosophy required a transition period that the club’s current top-flight campaign could not afford. Tensions also reportedly rose regarding the coach’s recruitment plans.

The club clarified the exit was based on timing rather than performance, noting: “the time required to fully embed this philosophy was not compatible with the immediate competitive demands of the current campaign.”

With 13 Premier Soccer League fixtures remaining, the board has opted for a more immediate, results-driven strategy to secure a top-eight finish.

Badela, who previously had a short spell at Chippa United this season, will be replaced by assistant Pitso Dladla on an interim basis. Dladla’s first challenge begins this Friday, 13 February, against TS Galaxy as the Citizens seek stability following this sudden managerial shift.

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