Durban City FC veteran goalkeeper Ayanda Mtshali has explained why he has decided to hang up his gloves at the end of the current 2025/26 campaign.
The 38-year-old goal-minder has been an important member of the Durban-based side since joining them in January 2024, back when the club was still competing under the Maritzburg United banner.
Mtshali was the captain of the side when they secured automatic promotion to the South African top-flight. Under his leadership, the team dominated the Motsepe Foundation Championship, finishing at the summit with 58 points from 30 matches.
Despite his influence in the dressing room, the experienced shot-stopper has not made an official appearance since the club’s return to the Betway Premiership.
The technical team has preferred Darren Keet as the preferred number one. Keet is also one of the players who will be retiring at the end of the season.
In addition, Mtshali is currently coaching the goalkeepers of Durban City’s DStv Diski Challenge [DDC] team.
WHY AYANDA MTSHALI IS RETIRING
Speaking to FARPost, Mtshali revealed that the desire to transition into coaching and give back to the young boys is the primary driver behind his decision.
The veteran goalkeeper will be retiring with so much joy, having recently lifted the 2026 Nedbank Cup title following Durban City’s hard-fought 2-1 victory over TS Galaxy at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium this past Saturday.
“You know, my brother, I feel I have played football for quite some time. I think it’s the right time to retire and start giving back to the young boys, given the experience I have,” Mtshali told this publication.
“…I started at their age, and I know how important it is to have someone experienced right by your side, guiding you. So, this is my wish: to give back from what I have learned. I want to focus on coaching, and it has become something I love.”
Reflecting on his final season, Mtshali expressed his gratitude for finishing his career with silverware.
“I’m also happy to have won the 2026 Nedbank Cup title in my last season. I couldn’t have wished to end my playing career in a better way. This is a big achievement for me and also for Durban City,” he added.
“You know, last season we were in the NFD, and now we are in the Betway Premiership and managed to win a title in our return to the top-flight.”
In his football professional career, Mtshali also had stints with teams such as Black Leopards, Free State Stars, Bloemfontein Celtic, Chippa United, and Cape Town All Stars.
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