Durban City are reportedly on the verge of bringing Eric Tinkler back to the club as they look to make another change in the dugout.
According to iDiski Times journalist Sinethemba Makonco, negotiations are at an advanced stage and Tinkler is expected to return to eThekwini for a second spell.
The reported move comes just a day after the former Bafana Bafana midfielder left Ghanaian giants Asante Kotoko.
Tinkler’s return to South Africa gathering pace
Tinkler spent roughly three months in charge of Asante Kotoko after taking over in 2026.
His short tenure included success in the Democracy Cup, although his side suffered a 2-0 defeat to Aduana Stars in their most recent league fixture.
He subsequently requested to leave the Ghanaian club, opening the door for a swift return to the Betway Premiership.
Durban City are understood to have moved quickly after parting ways with Tunisian coach Khalil Ben Youssef following a difficult start to the 2026/27 campaign.
Durban City looking for stability
The reported appointment would be another major change for a club that has experienced considerable turnover on the technical bench since earning promotion to South Africa’s top flight.
Simo Dladla guided the team to promotion before leaving following a contract dispute, while Sinethemba Badela later became part of the club’s technical setup.
Gavin Hunt was subsequently appointed as senior head coach but left after five months in December 2025.
Pitso Dladla then stepped in as interim coach and helped Durban City finish in the league’s top eight while also lifting the Nedbank Cup.
Ben Youssef was the latest permanent appointment, but his tenure lasted only around three months.
What Tinkler would bring
Tinkler would return with considerable experience of the South African top flight.
The former Orlando Pirates and Cape Town City coach has also worked with SuperSport United, Maritzburg United and Sekhukhune United, giving him a strong understanding of the demands of the Betway Premiership.
His potential return would also reunite him with a Durban City side that is seeking greater continuity after a succession of coaching changes.
A useful break for the new coach
If the move is completed, the international break could give Tinkler valuable time to assess his squad and begin implementing his ideas before domestic action resumes.
For Durban City, the priority will be turning their latest coaching appointment into a period of greater stability on the touchline.
Would Eric Tinkler be a good fit for Durban City if the reported appointment is confirmed?
