Former Mamelodi Sundowns analyst Goolam Valodia has resurfaced at Durban City FC after completing his UEFA B Licence with the Scottish Football Association.
Valodia, who spent 15 years contributing behind the scenes at Sundowns, was part of one of the most dominant eras in the club’s history.
During his tenure, the Brazilians secured multiple domestic honours, including 10 league titles, the CAF Champions League, CAF Super Cup, three Nedbank Cups, three League Cups, and the MTN8.
His departure from Sundowns in November last year was unexpected, as the seasoned analyst opted to further his coaching credentials. Having long been tied to the demanding schedule at Chloorkop, Valodia finally completed his UEFA B License and can now easily transition into a more hands-on technical role.
“Happy to share that I have successfully completed my UEFA B License. Thank you #ScottishFACoachEd and #One10Sport for the continuous support throughout the process,” Valodia shared.
NEW CHAPTER AT DURBAN CITY
The revered analyst had been without a club since leaving Sundowns, but his latest move sees him return to the domestic game with Durban City. Although the exact position he will assume is unclear, it is believed he is earmarked for the head of performance role and will double up as a second assistant at the KwaZulu-Natal outfit.
He had initially been considered for the technical director role, which was recently vacated by Ernst Middendorp. Durban City have shown encouraging progress in the second half of the season under head coach Pitso Dladla, who took over from Sinethemba Badela. Dladla has overseen a strong run of form, suffering just two defeats in nine matches while registering four wins in the Betway Premiership.
That run has kept the club in sixth position, firmly in contention for a top-eight finish in their first season back in the top flight.
Beyond their league form, the ‘Cityzens’ have also enjoyed an impressive cup run. They have reached the final of the Nedbank Cup, where they are set to face TS Galaxy on 2 May.
Valodia’s expected arrival could prove timely, with his wealth of experience at one of Africa’s most successful clubs likely to bolster the team’s technical structures ahead of a crucial end to the season.
His blend of analytical expertise and newly acquired coaching qualifications may not only support the current technical team but also position him as a key figure in shaping City’s long-term ambitions.
RELATED STORY: Sundowns announces departure of senior technical team member