Eric Tinkler emerges as leading contender for Durban City head coach role

Eric Tinkler has emerged as a leading candidate to become Durban City’s next head coach after leaving Asante Kotoko in the same week the South African club dismissed Khalil Ben Youssef.

Tinkler and Alexander Latiffe are among the coaches being considered by Durban City as the Betway Premiership side searches for a replacement, IOL Sports understands.

The former South Africa international became available on Monday when he and Ghanaian giants Asante Kotoko agreed to end his contract. Kotoko said Tinkler had requested his release for personal reasons.

His departure came after only four Ghana Premier League matches in charge, opening the possibility of a quick return to South African football.

Durban City are looking for a new manager after parting company with Ben Youssef on Saturday. The Tunisian was dismissed following seven Betway Premiership matches, during which the club recorded one win, four draws and two defeats.

Ben Youssef did lead Durban City into the second round of the CAF Confederation Cup. They progressed through the first preliminary round with a 3-1 aggregate victory over Rukinzo.

Tinkler is already known to the Durban City hierarchy. He had previously been linked with the position before Ben Youssef was appointed in June, and his availability has now given the club another option as it considers its next move.

Latiffe is also included among the candidates, with Durban City expected to assess several coaches before deciding on a permanent appointment.

The club’s continental commitments are an important factor in the process. Durban City remain involved in the CAF Confederation Cup and require a coach with the appropriate CAF qualification to lead the team from the technical area in the competition.

SABC Sport has also reported that Ernst Middendorp is under consideration. The German remained connected with Durban City as a consultant during Ben Youssef’s time in charge.

The club has time to complete the appointment during the international break. Durban City are not due to return to domestic action until October 13, when they face AmaZulu.

Tinkler could therefore make a swift return to the Betway Premiership following his departure from Asante Kotoko. Although his name has quickly been linked with the Durban City vacancy, IOL understands that he is not the only coach being considered, with Latiffe also involved in the process.