The former Bafana Bafana midfielder has coached several prominent South African clubs, including Orlando Pirates, Cape Town City, SuperSport United, Maritzburg United and Sekhukhune United.
His latest appointment follows a brief spell with Ghanaian giants Asante Kotoko, where he reportedly departed after just four league matches in charge.
Durban City confirmed the news in an official announcement, welcoming Tinkler as the club’s new head coach.
Tinkler said the club’s ambition and recent progress played a key role in his decision to accept the position.
“I’m excited to be part of what is being built here at Durban City FC,” he said.
“The club is very ambitious, they have made positive strides in a short space of time, competing in the CAF Confederation Cup already, and that made my decision easy.”
Kadodia backs experienced coach
Durban City chairman Farook Kadodia expressed confidence in the appointment, pointing to Tinkler’s understanding of South African football and the demands of the Premiership.
“Eric brings a wealth of experience in South African football and understands what is required at this level,” Kadodia said.
“We believe he is the right person to lead the team and help us achieve what we have set out to achieve this season.”
The pair already know each other from Tinkler’s previous stint at Maritzburg United. During that spell, he guided the club to the 2019 Telkom Knockout Cup final.
Tinkler said his existing relationship with Kadodia helped make the move an easy decision.
“The chairman is someone I’ve worked with before. When the opportunity presented itself to come back, I grabbed it with both hands,” he added.
Durban City seek a Premiership turnaround
Tinkler inherits a Durban City side that has made an uneven start to the 2026/27 league campaign.
At the time of the report, the club sat 10th in the standings with seven points from seven matches. Their record stood at one win, four draws and two defeats.
Although defensive organisation has offered some positives, a lack of cutting edge in front of goal has cost the team valuable points.
One of their best league performances came in a 2-0 away win over Kruger United, with Gaston Sirino and Jean Lwamba finding the net.
The club has also had to manage the demands of continental competition. Durban City progressed in the CAF Confederation Cup after eliminating Rukinzo, adding another challenge to an already busy schedule.
Tinkler’s first test: Durban City vs AmaZulu
Attention now turns to Tinkler’s first match in charge, which is set to come against AmaZulu FC.
The new coach will be tasked with improving Durban City’s league form while maintaining their progress on the continental stage. His experience across the Premiership could prove valuable, but results will ultimately determine how successful the appointment becomes.
Can Tinkler make an immediate impact and get Durban City moving up the table?
