Former Orlando Pirates Coach Lands New PSL Job, Replaces Ex-Kaizer Chiefs Manager
- Durban City confirmed Eric Tinkler as their new head coach following the departure of former Kaizer Chiefs manager Khalil Ben Youssef last month
- The former Orlando Pirates mentor arrives with extensive Betway Premiership experience, having previously managed five top-flight South African clubs
- The experienced South African coach faces an immediate test as Durban City sit 10th on the league table with seven points from seven matches
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Durban City FC have appointed Eric Tinkler as their new head coach, the club confirmed, ending a brief coaching vacancy created by the dismissal of Khalil Ben Youssef late last month.
Tinkler, a former Bafana Bafana midfielder, joins after a short-lived stint at Ghanaian giants Asante Kotoko, where he was in charge for just four league matches before departing.
Tinkler's Track Record in South African Football
The seasoned coach brings considerable Betway Premiership pedigree, having previously managed Orlando Pirates, Cape Town City, SuperSport United, Maritzburg United and Sekhukhune United.
"Durban City FC is pleased to announce the appointment of Eric Tinkler as the Club's new Head Coach," the club said in a statement.
Tinkler cited the club's ambition as a decisive factor in accepting the role. "I'm excited to be part of what is being built here at Durban City FC," he said.
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"The club is very ambitious; they have made positive strides in a short space of time, competing in the CAF Confederation Cup already, and that made my decision easy."
Club chairman Farook Kadodia welcomed the appointment, pointing to Tinkler's familiarity with the demands of South African top-flight football.
"Eric brings a wealth of experience in South African football and understands what is required at this level. We believe he is the right person to lead the team and help us achieve what we have set out to achieve this season," Kadodia said.
Tinkler and Kadodia share a working history from their time together at Maritzburg United, where Tinkler guided the side to the 2019 Telkom Knockout Cup final. "The chairman is someone I've worked with before. When the opportunity presented itself to come back, I grabbed it with both hands," the new coach added.
Durban City's Rocky Start to the Season
Tinkler inherits a squad that has struggled for consistency in the 2026/27 Betway Premiership campaign. The club currently occupy 10th place with seven points from seven outings, a record comprising one win, four draws and two defeats. While defensive solidity has been a relative strength, a lack of cutting edge in front of goal has limited their returns.
A 2-0 away victory against Kruger United, secured through goals from Gaston Sirino and Jean Lwamba, stands out as one of their more impressive results. The club has also been managing dual commitments, having progressed in the CAF Confederation Cup following the elimination of Rukinzo.
Tinkler's first competitive fixture in charge is set to be a Durban derby against AmaZulu FC.
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Source: Briefly News
