Durban City FC have announced the permanent signing of midfielder Kyle Jurgens from Stellenbosch FC.
The 22-year-old spent last season on loan at Durban City but has now sealed a five-year deal with the KwaZulu-Natal side. The long-term contract reflects the trust new coach Khalil Ben Youssef has in him.
Ben Youssef was recently appointed Durban City head coach after leaving Kaizer Chiefs, where he was part of the technical team for the last two seasons. The Tunisian has started refreshing the Durban City squad he inherited from Pitso Dladla by embarking on a major clean-out at the club.
The likes of Falakhe Tshanini, Odwa Nyulu, Joslin Kamatuka, Onele Rulwana and Lindokuhle Chonco have left after the club opted against offering them new deals following the expiry of their contracts.
Terrence Mashego, Taahir Goedeman, Ronaldo Maarman and Siphiwe Mahlangu were on loan at Durban City last season and have returned to their respective clubs. Right-back Emmanuel Jalai will be loaned out to Zimbabwean PSL champions Scottland FC.
But Jurgens has had his loan deal turned into a permanent move. The midfielder has been playing top-flight league football since being promoted to the Stellembosch senior team from their reserves during the 2022/23 season.
JURGENS OUT FOR REGULAR FOOTBALL UNDER DURBAN CITY COACH BEN YOUSSEF
Jurgens will be hoping to continue as a regular at Durban City after managing 32 appearances across all competitions last season. There is a lot to play for Ben Youssef’s side next season after they clinched the Nedbank Cup to earn themselves a CAF Confederation Cup ticket.
They will also take part in the MTN8, having finished in position eight on the Betway Premiership table. More game time for Jurgens might help the central midfielder attract Bafana Bafana selectors or overseas clubs.
“I am delighted to make my move to Durban City FC permanent. Last season was an incredible experience, and I am grateful for the trust shown in me by the club, the technical team and my teammates,” said Jurgens on Wednesday after signing the long-term deal with City.
“We achieved something special together, but I believe there is still much more to come. Durban City is a club with ambition, and I am excited to continue this journey and contribute to the success we want to achieve in the years ahead.”
WHY DURBAN CITY HANDED KYLE JURGENS A LONG-TERM DEAL
Durban City FC chairman Farook Kadodia has explained the qualities of Jurgens that inspired the club to have him for the next five years.
“Kyle was outstanding for us throughout the season and demonstrated exactly the qualities we value at Durban City FC,” said Kadodia.
“His consistency, professionalism and performances made him an important part of our success, and securing his services on a long-term contract was a priority for the Club. At 22 years of age, Kyle has tremendous potential and we believe he will continue to develop into an even more influential player.
“We are pleased that his future remains with Durban City FC as we continue building for sustained success.”
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