Eric Tinkler appointed Durban City head coach

Durban City have confirmed the appointment of former Bafana Bafana midfielder Eric Tinkler as their new head coach.

The KwaZulu-Natal club announced Tinkler’s arrival on Thursday, following the departure of Khalil Ben Youssef.

Tinkler takes over before Durban City return to domestic action after the FIFA International break. He had been widely expected to become the club’s next manager and has now been formally installed ahead of the resumption of the season.

The 1996 Africa Cup of Nations winner brings extensive experience of South African football to the role. He has previously managed Orlando Pirates, Cape Town City, SuperSport United and Sekhukhune United, as well as other clubs in Mzansi’s topflight. His most recent position was with Ghanaian giants Asante Kotoko.

“Durban City FC is pleased to announce the appointment of Eric Tinkler as the Club’s new Head Coach. A 1996 Africa Cup of Nations winner with Bafana Bafana, Tinkler has coached sides like Orlando Pirates, Cape Town City and SuperSport United. He most recently coached Ghanaian giants Asante Kotoko,” the club said in an official statement.

“He takes charge following the parting of ways with former head coach, Khalil Ben Youssef. He joins at a pivotal point of the season as the club prepares to return to domestic action following the FIFA International break.”

Tinkler said he was encouraged by Durban City’s progress and ambitions after agreeing to take charge.

“I’m excited to be part of what is being built here at Durban City FC. 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,” he said in a club statement.

Chairman Farook Kadodia also expressed his confidence in the appointment, saying Tinkler’s knowledge of the domestic game made him well suited to lead the team.

“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.

Durban City have already competed in the CAF Confederation Cup this season and are preparing for the return of domestic football after the international break.

Tinkler’s immediate priority will be to establish himself within the club and continue the work started under Ben Youssef before the pause in the domestic schedule.