South African outfit Durban City part ways with coach Gavin Hunt after four months spell

South African outfit Durban City have announced the immediate departure of head coach Gavin Hunt after just four month spell at the club.

Hunt, who joined Durban City in July 2025 leaves the club on a mutual consent, bringing a swift end to his tenure at the newly promoted Premiership club.

The decision stem from a comprehensive internal review of the team’s performance, objectives and overall trajectory. With the side showing flashes of competitiveness but battling inconsistency, the board felt a change was required to stabilise the campaign before the AFCON break.

The Citizens are currently placed in eighth position after five wins, four draws and five defeats in 14 games in the South African top-flight.

“This was a decision reached amicably in the best interests of the Club. We thank Gavin for his dedication and service during his time with us and wish him every success in the next chapter of his career,” club chairman Farook Kadodia said.

“The Board believes a new direction is necessary to achieve our performance goals,” he added.

Meanwhile, assistant coach Pitso Dladla has been appointed to take interim charge of the team. He will guide the team against Orbit College in mid-week.

Gavin Hunt remains one of the most respected figures in South African football. The Cape Town-born tactician first made his mark at Seven Stars, where he famously spotted and polished a 17-year-old Benni McCarthy, who would go on to become the country’s greatest-ever footballer.

He soon moved on to the likes of Hellenic, Moroka Swallows, and SuperSport United, where he lifted a remarkable three league titles on the spin: 2007/8, 2008/9 and 2009/10.

Gavin Hunt later switched to Bidvest Wits, where he lifted his fourth PSL title in 2016/17, becoming the fourth coach in history to have won four league titles. The revered company includes Gordon Igesund, Ted Dumitru and Pitso Mosimane, who remains the greatest with a record five titles.

Following the glory days, the 61-year-old took charge of Kaizer Chiefs, Chippa United, SuperSport for a second stint, and of course, Durban City.

The club’s next fixture is a trip to the North West to battle fellow rookies Orbit College FC on Wednesday, 3 December at Olympia Park, Rustenburg.