Richards Bay set to appoint Dimitar Pantev after Marumo Gallants move collapses

Richards Bay are poised to appoint Dimitar Pantev as their new head coach, just one week after the Bulgarian’s proposed move to Marumo Gallants broke down.

The Natal Rich Boyz dismissed Ronnie Gabriel on Thursday after beginning their 2026/27 league campaign without a win. Richards Bay have drawn three matches and lost three of their opening six fixtures.

Former TS Galaxy head coach Adnan Beganovic and Phuti Mohafe, who has previously worked at Marumo Gallants and Polokwane City, were also considered for the vacant position. However, iDiski Times reports that Pantev is now expected to take charge.

Pantev previously managed Gaborone United, where he won the league in Botswana. He later became the predecessor of Steve Barker at Simba SC and has developed a reputation for an attacking style of football since arriving in Africa.

The 2026/27 season will be Pantev’s first opportunity to lead Richards Bay, who have struggled to find consistency at the start of their latest campaign. His appointment would also mark a significant change in the club’s coaching structure following Gabriel’s departure.

Pantev held advanced talks with Marumo Gallants last week, but the deal collapsed during the final stages because of disagreements over wage demands. Gallants have since appointed Ronnie Fillemon Kanalelo instead.

The Bulgarian is expected to arrive at Richards Bay later on Friday to complete his move, although the appointment remains subject to any last-minute changes.

If confirmed, Pantev will become Richards Bay’s first European head coach since the club won promotion to the South African top flight.

The report was written by Lorenz Kohler.