Former Kaizer Chiefs striker Bernard Parker is facing a period of uncertainty after parting ways with TS Galaxy, where he recently served as head coach.
The ex-Bafana Bafana international has also made headlines following the announcement of his separation from his wife, Kacha Stephanovic. Parker has since appealed for privacy as he navigates changes in his professional and personal life.
Known to football supporters as “Die Hond”, Parker enjoyed a successful playing career before moving into coaching. However, following his exit from TS Galaxy, his next step in football remains uncertain.
Bernard Parker’s journey from striker to coach
Parker first made a name for himself at Benoni Premier United before attracting international attention through his performances for Bafana Bafana at the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup.
His displays helped open the door to a move abroad, before he eventually joined Kaizer Chiefs and became a familiar face at Naturena.
During his decade with Amakhosi, Parker won four trophies and established himself as one of the club’s recognisable attacking players.
In 2022, he left Chiefs and joined TS Galaxy. After spending two seasons at the Mpumalanga-based club as a player, he brought his playing career to an end and began working in coaching.
Parker initially worked with Galaxy’s reserve team before being promoted to the senior side’s head coach position towards the end of the 2025/26 season.
He led the team to the Nedbank Cup final, although Galaxy ultimately missed out on the trophy after losing to Durban City.
Why did Bernard Parker leave TS Galaxy?
Parker’s time as TS Galaxy head coach was brief. According to the supplied report, club CEO Tim Sukazi confirmed that Parker had left the coaching position.
The former striker was reportedly offered a role as an assistant coach with the club’s DStv Diski Challenge team but did not take up the opportunity.
His departure means Parker is no longer part of TS Galaxy’s coaching setup, based on the information provided. No new coaching appointment has been confirmed, leaving questions about where his career will go next.
Whether he returns to coaching at another club or pursues a different opportunity in football remains to be seen.
Parker asks for privacy amid personal changes
Parker’s professional departure coincided with news of his separation from his wife, Kacha Stephanovic.
In a statement referenced in the original report, Parker apologised for the hurt and disappointment caused to his wife and acknowledged that he was dealing with personal challenges.
The announcement prompted reactions across social media. Parker later issued a further statement asking the public to respect his privacy during what he described as a difficult period.
While his personal circumstances have attracted public attention, the former footballer has asked for space as he deals with the changes in his life.
What comes next for Bernard Parker?
For now, Parker’s future in football remains an open question. His departure from TS Galaxy marks the end of his latest coaching chapter, but there has been no confirmed announcement about his next role.
With years of experience in South African football as both a player and a coach, his next move will be of interest to supporters, particularly those who followed his time at Kaizer Chiefs.
Until further details are confirmed, it remains unclear where Parker will continue his coaching career.
Where do you think Bernard Parker should go next in football? Share your thoughts in the comments.
