Durban City part ways with Badela

Durban City have mutually agreed to part ways with head coach, Sinethemba Badela, after three matches into his tenure.

Badela’s short stint at the club included a league win over Polokwane City and a defeat to Chippa United. Most recently, he guided City into the Last 16 of the Nedbank Cup after a goalless draw against Chippa, progressing via a penalty shootout on Friday.

The club insists that results were not a factor in the decision. Instead, Durban City says the pace at which Badela sought to implement his plans was not aligned with the club’s management approach.

“Durban City FC confirms that the Club has mutually agreed to part ways with Head Coach Sinethemba Badela, with immediate effect,” the club said in a statement. “This decision is not a reflection of match results, nor does it detract from the professionalism, dedication, and commitment demonstrated by Coach Badela during his tenure.”

“The Club acknowledges and sincerely appreciates his contribution, particularly his role in introducing a modern footballing philosophy and cultivating a strong, values-driven culture within the squad. His approach was aligned with the Club’s long-term vision and developmental objectives.”

Thank you, Coach Badela.

Durban City FC confirms that the Club has parted ways with Head Coach Sinethemba Badela by mutual agreement.

We appreciate his service and wish him every success moving forward.

Read the full club Update below:https://t.co/vLOVDvcISR… pic.twitter.com/tdUDNHNGW1

— Durban City FC (@DurbanCity_FC) February 9, 2026

Badela was appointed in December after replacing Gavin Hunt, who was dismissed despite steering the newly promoted side into the top half of the table. Hunt has since joined Stellenbosch FC.

Earlier this season, Badela also had a brief two-match stint in charge of Chippa United, and previously served as assistant coach to Rhulani Mokwena at Wydad Casablanca.

Written by: Ntsako Mukhari