Newly appointed Durban City FC head coach Eric Tinkler has revealed the key reasons behind his decision to take charge of the Betway Premiership side following his departure from Ghanaian giants Asante Kotoko SC.
The Citizens officially announced Tinkler’s appointment on Thursday, 8 October, across their official social media platforms.
His arrival in Durban comes shortly after he resigned as Asante Kotoko head coach late last month. Tinkler took charge of the Ghanaian club on July 17, 2026, after leaving Betway Premiership outfit Sekhukhune United FC in April.
The Ghanaian giants confirmed his departure on Monday, 28 September 2026.
‘THE CLUB IS VERY AMBITIOUS’: ERIC TINKLER
Speaking during his unveiling as Durban City’s new head coach, the former Bafana Bafana international highlighted the club’s rapid growth and clear ambition as major factors in his decision.
“I’m excited to be part of what is being built here at Durban City FC. The club is very ambitious,” said Tinkler.
“They have made positive strides in a short space of time, competing in the CAF Confederation Cup already, and that made my decision easy.”
Tinkler also cited his previous working relationship with Durban City chairman Farook Kadodia as a significant influence. The duo previously worked together when the team was still called Maritzburg United, where Tinkler guided the ‘Team of Choice’ to the final of the 2019 Telkom Knockout Cup.
“The chairman is someone I’ve worked with before. When the opportunity presented itself to come back, I grabbed it with both hands,” Tinkler added.
“I don’t want to make massive changes because last season the club was successful. It’s about giving others an opportunity and getting back to winning ways. We want to finish in the top eight, go as far as we can in the CAF Confederation Cup, and compete in the Carling Cup and Nedbank Cup. There’s a lot to play for.”
‘ERIC BRINGS A WEALTH OF EXPERIENCE’: FAROOK KADODIA
Durban City chairman Farook Kadodia expressed his confidence in Tinkler’s capability to steer the club toward its seasonal objectives.
“Eric brings a wealth of experience in South African football and understands what is required at this level,” stated Kadodia.
“We believe he is the right person to lead the team and help us achieve what we have set out to achieve this season.”
Tinkler’s first official match at the helm will be the Betway Premiership KZN Derby against AmaZulu FC on 13 October at Chatsworth Stadium.
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