Richards Bay set to appoint Pitso Dladla as new head coach after Dimitar Pantev dismissal

South African outfit Richards Bay are reportedly closing in on the reappointment of former head coach Pitso Dladla as the club prepare to part ways with Bulgarian tactician Dimitar Pantev following a disappointing spell in charge.

According to reports, the club’s hierarchy have decided to make another change in the technical department, with Dladla emerging as the preferred candidate to take over the coaching responsibilities.

Pantev’s time at the helm has reportedly lasted only around a month, but a series of disappointing results and growing uncertainty surrounding the team’s performances have pushed the club’s management towards a coaching shake-up.

The Richards Bay hierarchy are understood to have opted for a familiar face in Dladla, who previously guided the club through an important period in its history.

His experience with the Natal Rich Boyz and knowledge of the team’s structure are considered important factors behind the decision to bring him back.

Dladla is familiar with the club’s playing personnel and understands the demands of the South African Premier Soccer League, which could help ease his transition should the proposed appointment be completed.

The former coach played a significant role in Richards Bay’s rise to the South African top flight, helping the club secure promotion and establish itself in the country’s premier division.

His potential return is therefore expected to bring a sense of familiarity and stability to a club eager to improve its fortunes after struggling to find consistency under Pantev.

The parties are expected to finalise an agreement once Richards Bay officially complete the termination of the Bulgarian coach’s contract.

Should the appointment go through, Dladla will face the immediate challenge of restoring confidence within the squad, improving results and guiding the club away from its current difficulties.

Richards Bay have endured an unsettled period in the technical department, and the expected return of Dladla could provide the continuity the club’s management believes is necessary to get their campaign back on track.

However, the appointment remains subject to the formal conclusion of Pantev’s contract and the completion of negotiations with the former Richards Bay coach.