Betway Premiership side Durban City FC have made a major statement of intent ahead of the 2026/27 season after officially confirming the arrivals of eight new players, headlined by former Kaizer Chiefs attacker Gastón Sirino.
The Uruguayan playmaker reunites with newly appointed head coach Khalil Ben Youssef at the KwaZulu-Natal outfit, having previously worked under him at Kaizer Chiefs.
Ben Youssef replaces Pitso Dladla, who led the KZN side to the 2026 Nedbank Cup title before joining arch-rivals Golden Arrows ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.
And by securing Sirino’s marquee signature, Durban City have firmly laid down their marker. The 35-year-old midfielder became a free agent following the end of the 2025/26 season after parting ways with Amakhosi.
Ben Youssef was instrumental in securing the former Mamelodi Sundowns star’s signature. Their existing relationship made it easy for Sirino to consider a move to the Durban outfit.
Alongside Sirino, Durban City have unveiled seven new signings. These include Junior Papier, Kabelo Mofokeng, Lifa Makua, Siya Msomi, John Mokone, Tylo Sanger, and Seth Green.
The squad overhaul marks a big step in the club’s pre-season preparations. Coach Ben Youssef is looking to build a competitive side for the 2026/27 Betway Premiership campaign.
DURBAN CITY FC’S OFFICIAL STATEMENT ON NEW ACQUISITIONS
In a statement issued on Friday evening, the club confirmed that all eight new recruits have joined their teammates in camp.
“Durban City FC has further strengthened its first-team squad with the addition of eight new players ahead of the 2026/27 Betway Premiership season,” reads the club’s statement.
“The players have already linked up with their new teammates in camp. They have already begun training as preparations continue for the new season.”
Durban City’s first game of the season will be against Sekhukhune United. Interestingly, Babina Noko are coached by Ben Youssef’s former colleague at Chiefs, Cedric Kaze.
The showdown is scheduled to take place on August 1, 2026, at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane.
RELATED STORY: Kaizer Chiefs announce Gaston Sirino departure as Durban City transfer looms
