Newly appointed Stellenbosch FC head coach Gavin Hunt has explained the urgent need for squad reinforcements ahead of what promises to be a demanding second half of the 2025/26 PSL season.
Hunt officially took the reins in December 2025 following the departure of Steve Barker, who ended a historic nine-year tenure to join Tanzanian giants Simba SC.
The four-time PSL-winning coach arrived in the Winelands shortly after parting ways with Durban City FC.
Hunt enters a high-pressure environment. Stellenbosch currently occupies 14th place in the Betway Premiership with 12 points from 14 matches, leaving them dangerously close to the relegation zone.
Meanwhile, the club must balance domestic survival with their commitments in the CAF Confederation Cup group stages.
‘WE ARE SHORT OF PLAYERS’: GAVIN HUNT
Addressing recent transfer speculation linking the club with Orlando Pirates striker Tshegofatso Mabasa and Mamelodi Sundowns veteran defender Mosa Lebusa, Hunt remained pragmatic, but acknowledged that there are negotiations going on with a number of players because the team is short of players.
“I think it is evident in our situation that we need to bring in players because we are a little short. We are short of players, especially in the front of the team and, obviously, at the back of the team, and there are no doubts about it,” said Hunt.
“There are a lot of negotiations going on right now. Believe me, when I get on my phone, it will be a different story. There are a lot of players I have spoken to, and there are a lot of players we have lost out to as well.
“So, before we make any announcements, I think the club will come through the media department as soon as the contracts are signed. But there are a lot of negotiations ongoing at the moment for players to come in.”
The Hunt era at Stellies officially begins this coming Tuesday, 20 January 2026. Stellenbosch will take on Sekhukhune United at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane. The Betway Premiership match between the two teams will start at 19:30.
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