Sinethemba Badela explains decision to take Durban City job

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Badela on taking over the reins at City

Photo: Darren Stewart/ Gallo Images

Newly appointed Durban City head coach Sinethemba Badela has explained the reason why he opted to take over the reins at the KZN-based outfit.

The 35-year-old mentor had been unattached following an abrupt exit at Chippa United after two games into the season, courtesy of an alleged rift with then-Sporting Director Sinesipho Mali.

Now, Badela is back in the dugout to succeed veteran tactician Gavin Hunt, and he has since revealed why he deemed the City project the right fit for him.

“Durban City is a club heading in the right direction. The ambition shown by the chairman, the board, and the technical team really stood out to me. I like the squad, I like the players, and I feel very comfortable here,” he told the club's media team.

On his philosophy, the former Wydad Athletic Club assistant coach outlined that he wants his team to be dominant on and off the ball, while playing with high intensity.

“I want a team that dominates the game, with and without the ball. More importantly, I want the players to express themselves, play with energy, and work extremely hard on the pitch,” Badela added.

With the Citizens sitting seventh, having accumulated 22 points from 15 league outings, Badela has set his sights on continuity on the foundations laid by his predecessor.

“The team has done very well so far. My focus is on continuing that progress and helping the players fully express their strengths on the pitch. We want people to enjoy coming to the stadium. We will give everything in every game and make Durban City an exciting team to watch,” he concluded.

City will return to Betway Premiership action with a clash against Polokwane City at Chatsworth Stadium on 25 January, in what will be Badela's first game in charge of the team.