Former Orlando Pirates defender Bandile Shandu has been confirmed as a new Durban City FC player after being released by the Soweto giants.
As first reported by FARPost, Shandu is back in KwaZulu-Natal, where he previously turned out for Maritzburg United, whose franchise is now Durban City. He is now back in KZN after spending five seasons at Pirates.
However, the 2025/26 term was a difficult one for the right-back. Even after the Buccaneers claimed a treble, Shandu managed just four appearances across all competitions. He fell behind the likes of Kamogelo Sebelebele and Deano van Rooyen as the main contenders for the right-back position.
BANDILE SHANDU BUYING INTO BEN YOUSSEF’S DURBAN CITY VISION
After a difficult 2025/26 season at Piates, Shandu has opened up on the project he has embarked on with new Durban City coach Khallil Ben Youssef. The Tunisian coach is in Durban after leaving Kaizer Chiefs where he was co-coach with Cedric Kaze last season.
Ben Youssef is building a new team and has released the likes of Falakhe Tshanini, Odwa Nyulu, Joslin Kamatuka, Onele Rulwana and Lindokuhle Chonco after the club opted not to offer 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.
Kyle Jurgens has been signed on a permanent deal after spending last season on loan at City, and he will be Shandu’s teammate.
“I am delighted to join Durban City FC and would like to thank the coach and the board for the confidence they have shown in me. From my conversations with the coach, it became clear that there is a strong vision and ambition for the future, and I wanted to be part of that Journey,” said Shandu when he was unveiled as a new City player on Friday.
“I am looking forward to working with my new teammates and the technical team as we prepare for the season ahead.”
WHAT BANDILE SHANDU BRINGS TO DURBAN CITY
Announcing Shandu’s arrival on Friday, the club explained what the defender offers Durban City, who will be participating in the CAF Confederation Cup next season after winning the Nedbank Cup.
“The 31-year-old joins Durban City following his spell with Orlando Pirates, bringing a wealth of Betway Premiership experience as the club prepares for an exciting 2026/27 campaign that includes the Betway Premiership, domestic cup competitions and the CAF Confederation Cup,” the club announced in a statement.
“Naturally deployed at right-back, Shandu brings valuable versatility through his ability to operate in several roles across the right flank. His experience, leadership and tactical understanding make him an important addition to Durban City FC ahead of the new season.”
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