Durban City have turned to two of South African football’s most experienced figures in a bold move to establish themselves in the Betway Premiership.
Gavin Hunt is said to have agreed to take over as head coach and Ernst Middendorp set to be appointed as technical director.
The pair, who share over four decades of top-flight coaching experience between them, have already held preliminary discussions about the club’s long-term vision and are expected to form the backbone of a project aimed at stabilising and eventually competing in the elite division.
While Hunt’s appointment is yet to be formally announced, Independent Media understand the deal is agreed in principle and the club is preparing to unveil him this week once all paperwork is finalised.
City’s swift move comes after parting ways with Simo Dladla last week — a surprising decision considering he guided the club to promotion.
Dladla has since joined crosstown rivals AmaZulu as Arthur Zwane’s new assistant, while Durban City wasted no time in securing Hunt’s signature.
Hunt, a four-time Premiership champion, has been unattached since his exit from SuperSport United before the conclusion of last season. His availability aligned with City’s ambitions, and with Middendorp’s endorsement, he quickly became the club’s top priority.
Middendorp, who has worked extensively in both technical and coaching roles across the league, will provide structural oversight while Hunt takes charge of the dressing room.
The new coaching setup is already taking shape. Former Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Rowen Fernandez is expected to come on board as the club’s goalkeeper coach, while Kaitano Tembo has emerged as the frontrunner for the assistant coaching role.
Tembo, recently demoted by Sekhukhune United following the arrival of Eric Tinkler, is believed to be open to the reunion with Hunt after their previous stint together at SuperSport.
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For Hunt, this marks a return to the touchline with a club looking to punch above their weight.
The 59-year-old has won league titles with SuperSport United and Bidvest Wits, and while Durban City may not boast the resources of his former employers, the challenge of building from the ground up appears to have appealed to his managerial instincts.
Durban City chairman Farook Kadodia. Photo: BackpagePix
The Betway Premiership season is expected to kick off on 8 August, though official fixtures are yet to be released.
With less than a month to go, Hunt and his technical team will need to hit the ground running as they assess the squad and begin pre-season preparations.
Durban City’s top-flight return was always going to demand bold leadership. With Hunt and Middendorp steering the ship, the club have signalled their intent to survive, stabilise, and eventually thrive among the country’s elite.
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