The speculative drama is officially over. Former Kaizer Chiefs tactician Khalil Ben Youssef has been unveiled as the brand-new head coach of Durban City ahead of the highly anticipated 2026/27 domestic and continental season.
The 37-year-old takes the reins at a historic moment for the club, inherited from an incredible 2025/26 campaign that saw the side capture the Nedbank Cup and secure a dream ticket to the CAF Confederation Cup.
A Continental Mastermind Lands in Durban
Ben Youssef arrives in Durban boasting an elite African football résumé. Beyond his recent two-season spell at Naturena—where he was a crucial pillar of Nasreddine Nabi’s technical team before stepping up as co-coach alongside Cédric Kaze—he has commanded respect across North Africa and the Middle East. His previous technical stints include continental powerhouses like:
- AS FAR Rabat (Morocco)
- Young Africans SC (Tanzania)
- Club Africain (Tunisia)
- Al Ahli SC
Durban City Chairman Farook Kadodia didn’t hide his excitement about the coup, stating:
“Khalil is a coach with strong experience, excellent technical knowledge, and a clear understanding of the modern game. We believe he is the right person to lead the next phase of Durban City Football Club’s journey.”
Ready for the Double Front: PSL and CAF
Stepping into the hot seat, the Tunisian strategist expressed immediate readiness to build a formidable unit capable of balancing demanding domestic fixtures with grueling continental travel.
“This is an ambitious club with a clear vision for the future,” Ben Youssef noted. “My focus is on building a competitive team that reflects the values and ambitions of Durban City FC.”
