Dutch coach Andries Ulderink, initially earmarked for the head coach position at Cape Town City FC, has left the club to take on the role of assistant manager under Erik ten Hag at Bayer Leverkusen.
Ten Hag, formerly the manager of Manchester United, has succeeded Xabi Alonso at the German club. The club announced his appointment three weeks ago, following Alonso’s switch to Spanish giants Real Madrid.
FARPost can exclusively reveal that Ulderink said goodbye to Betway Premiership side CT City just two weeks after we reported that he had resumed his duties at the club. When Ulderink arrived in South Africa earlier this month, he and CT City chairman John Comitis reportedly agreed that he would be allowed to leave if a good opportunity from Europe arose.
The 55-year-old, who most recently managed Antwerp in Belgium, entered discussions with the Bundesliga side at Ten Hag’s recommendation. The two coaches are well-acquainted from their homeland, the Netherlands.
ANDRIES ULDERINK’S DEPARTURE A BLOW FOR CAPE TOWN CITY FC
Ulderink’s departure is a major setback for the troubled club. He has prior coaching experience in the South African top-flight, having previously led Ajax Cape Town. He is known for believing in young players, a philosophy that City consistently embraces.
Ulderink conducted training sessions at City during the past 12 days, and his appointment was expected to be announced soon. CT City, who finished 15th in the Betway Premiership, had hoped to conclude the relegation/promotional playoffs before formally announcing Ulderink’s appointment.
Currently, CT City is fighting to retain its top-flight status in a three-team group. Although Ulderink did not sit on the bench during their first game against Orbit College, which ended in a goalless draw, he was involved in the team’s preparations and engaged with players during half-time.
CT City must finish at the top to maintain its top-flight status after the four playoff games, which are played home and away.
Meanwhile, the Dutchman’s first competitive fixture in Germany will be in the DFB Cup first round on August 15. The 2023/24 champions will begin their Bundesliga campaign the following weekend.