Durban City appoint Gavin Hunt to lead club into Premiership era

Durban City have cited Gavin Hunt’s “leadership style and results-driven approach” as the primary reason for appointing him as the club’s new head coach.

The club officially confirmed Hunt’s appointment on Wednesday afternoon, following widespread reports linking him with the newly promoted side.

Hunt joins City after they parted ways with coach Simo Dladla, who led the team to the Motsepe Foundation Championship title and secured promotion to the top flight for next season.

The veteran coach had been a free agent since his departure from the soon-to-be-defunct SuperSport United. While some members of the football fraternity were surprised by the move — with critics suggesting Hunt’s time had passed in an ever-evolving football landscape — Durban City strongly backed the 59-year-old.

The club highlighted Hunt’s extensive experience and success in South African football, including four league titles, as central to their decision.

“His leadership style and results-driven approach aligns perfectly with Durban City’s ambitions as we prepare for the upcoming Betway Premiership season,” the club said in a statement.

Club chairman Farook Kadodia also expressed full confidence in Hunt’s ability to guide the club through this new chapter, noting the coach’s vast knowledge and recent milestone of managing his 1 000th professional match.

“We are thrilled to welcome Gavin to Durban City,” said Kadodia. “His record speaks for itself, and we believe he is the right person to lead our team into this exciting new era.

“His professionalism, football knowledge and winning mentality are exactly what the club needs as we strive to compete at the highest level.”