Three-time CAF Champions League-winning coach Pitso Mosimane has shared his views on Sinethemba Badela following the tactician’s sudden departure from Betway Premiership side Durban City FC.
The KwaZulu-Natal club confirmed the exit of the former Mamelodi Sundowns DStv Diski Challenge mentor on Monday, 9 February 2026.
Badela had only taken the reins in December 2025, succeeding veteran coach Gavin Hunt after a brief stint with Chippa United.
In an official statement released on Monday afternoon, Durban City clarified that the separation was not fueled by results or misconduct. Instead, the club cited a “strategic misalignment regarding time” as the primary reason for the split.
Despite the short tenure, Badela’s record showed promise, as he started with a 1-0 win over Polokwane City FC at Chatsworth Stadium in January. While he succumbed to a 2-0 loss in the Betway Premiership tie against his ex-employers, Chippa, over the weekend, he got his revenge as he led his side to a dramatic penalty shootout victory [3-2] against the Chilli Boys in the Nedbank Cup Round of 32.
‘I SEE SOMETHING SPECIAL IN HIM’: PITSO MOSIMANE
Coach Mosimane, who never shy away from identifying coaching potential—took to social media to speak highly of Badela’s pedigree.
Mosimane’s endorsement carries significant weight, highlighting his firsthand experience with Badela. ‘Jingles’, as he’s affectionately known within the football circles, has positioned the former Wydad AC assistant gaffer as a coach who belongs at the highest level, regardless of the recent shake-up at Durban City.
“This coach is very talented. I see something special in him. South Africa must preserve and nurture its own talent,” wrote Mosimane on X [Twitter].
“I spent a full day with him in Bloemfontein, and I was very impressed with him.”
As things stand, Badela is now a free agent in the coaching market, but given Mosimane’s public backing, Badela is unlikely to remain on the sidelines for long.
RELATED STORY: Durban City FC explain Sinethemba Badela’s shocking departure