Stellenbosch FC are navigating a major squad overhaul and a venue crisis ahead of their opening 2026/27 Betway Premiership match against AmaZulu in Durban on Saturday.
The Winelands outfit enter the new season amidst significant squad changes, having parted ways with a host of key figures. Thabo Moloisane, Ibraheem Jabaar, Mthetheleli Mthiyane, and Omega Mdaka have all departed, while the high-profile transfer of Thapelo Mokobodi to Orlando Pirates has further thinned Hunt’s options.
To compound matters, star talent Langelihle Phili remains heavily linked with a move to Kaizer Chiefs.
Hunt offered a pragmatic assessment of managing a squad in transition, as transfer speculation continues to swirl around his best players.
“Obviously, you don’t want to lose the player, he is one of the hottest properties in South Africa,” Hunt said regarding Phili.
“But obviously, contractual circumstances come into play. There has been a lot of media speculation about his future. We will see what happens over the next few days.”
Reflecting on a frantic pre-season defined by these departures, the veteran coach was brutally honest about his side’s readiness.
“If a coach says they are prepared after pre-season, they are lying,” Hunt stated.
“You are never prepared after pre-season, because there is a lot happening, with player movements in and out. It’s been a difficult period from that perspective, but you try and put it together.
“Hopefully we can hit the ground running. That’s football, the demands are more, the pressure is more. You just have to take it one step at a time.”
Adding to the squad disruption is an administrative headache off the field. Originally scheduled to host Usuthu, Stellenbosch have been forced to forfeit home advantage, with the match relocated to Durban.
Stellenbosch’s regular home venue, Danie Craven Stadium, is unavailable due to an international rugby tournament, while Athlone Stadium is occupied by the touring New Zealand All Blacks as they prepare for their tour of South Africa.
For Hunt, starting the campaign without a home ground presents an unwelcome hurdle.
“The frustrating part is the stadiums, not having a stadium to play at, always playing away,” Hunt admitted. “It puts a lot of pressure on us.”
Despite the off-field challenges and missing key personnel, Stellies remain determined to stay competitive against the league’s top sides, even if Hunt keeps expectations grounded.
“How are you going to compete against the two giants right now?” Hunt replied when asked if he is targeting silverware this season.
“We obviously want to compete and we will compete in every game we play. But you need to be realistic, get the squad playing and try to get as many points as we can. That always gives you momentum.”
