Durban City FC head coach Gavin Hunt has explained why Thulani Hlatshwayo’s move to the club didn’t materialise.
The 35-year-old defender, Hlatshwayo, remains unattached, having parted company with the now-defunct SuperSport United, who were purchased by Siwelele FC and relocated to the Free State.
The former Bafana Bafana captain had already seen his contract expire at the end of the previous season, having joined Matsatsantsa in 2022 from Orlando Pirates.
During the pre-season, he was one of the new faces at Betway Premiership newcomers Durban City, training with the team as it prepared for the new season after earning promotion from the Motsepe Foundation Championship. The player eventually stopped training with the KZN side.
Following the team’s 1-0 victory over Chippa United on Wednesday in the league, Hunt addressed the failed move. He cited “a few problems” as the reason and expressed his sympathy for the player.
HUNT EXPLAINS WHY HLATSWAYO’S MOVE TO CITY FELL THROUGH
“Yeah, it’s sad, there were a few problems, and I feel for the player,” said Hunt. “He is a fantastic [player], he is a great soldier. I mean, he’d love these types of games [the one against Chippa United on Wednesday]. He is the best in these types of games.”
Hunt further stated that he hoped that Hlatswayo would soon get a club. “It’s just a pity that…maybe there must be something coming up soon, maybe. We will see, but he needs a bit of a break.”
Meanwhile, following their promotion to the top-flight, Durban City completely revamped their squad and coaching staff.
The team saw a change in leadership with Gavin Hunt replacing head coach Simo Dladla. More than 15 players were released, and the club brought in several new players, including some who have experience in the Betway Premiership, such as Haashim Domingo and Thabo Nodada.
The club has started the 2025/26 season with a perfect record, winning both of its opening games. In their next fixture, they will face Golden Arrows on Tuesday, 19 August at Chatsworth Stadium.
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