Just months after his departure, German coach Ernst Middendorp is being strongly tipped for a sensational return to Betway Premiership side Durban City FC following Gavin Hunt’s sacking. The speculation follows the club’s dramatic announcement on Monday of a “mutual separation” with head coach Hunt.
Middendorp, who initially joined the newly promoted Citizens as a technical director, left the club abruptly in October, just three months into his tenure. The departure was attributed to the expiration of his short-term contract, as Durban City chairman Farook Kadodia confirmed at the time to FARPost. “He was on a three-month contract, and it has come to an end,” Kadodia said at the time.
However, sources close to the club suggested the true reason was an irreconcilable working relationship with Hunt. Middendorp allegedly complained to management about his inability to work effectively with the four-time Premiership champion.
The club’s leadership chose to back Hunt, effectively giving Middendorp his walking papers. The German coach later took a swipe at his former colleague, suggesting Hunt was failing to evolve as a coach, in a veiled social media post.
Now, with the man the club backed out of the picture, speculation has turned immediately to Middendorp.
ERNST MIDDENDORP RECENTLY SEEN AT DURBAN CITY DDC GAME
Coincidentally, earlier last month, Middendorp, who remains unattached, was reportedly seen attending a Durban City DDC game, fueling internal rumours about a possible return. According to club sources, a return for the experienced coach is a serious possibility. However, it is unlikely to be in the head coach role, which is currently being filled on an interim basis by assistant Pitso Dladla.
“Middendorp could potentially return to the club, although not as a head coach,” a source told FARPost. Given his previous short-term mandate to establish technical structures and work with the Diski team, a re-appointment in a similar structural or technical advisory capacity, one that avoids direct conflict with the future head coach, seems plausible.
Hunt leaves the team in a respectable eighth position after 14 games. The club is expected to use the upcoming AFCON break to appoint a permanent successor.
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