Orlando Pirates reject snapped by ex-Kaizer Chiefs coach

Immediate former Kaizer Chiefs coach Khalil Ben Youssef is busy shaping up Premier Soccer League side Durban City ahead of a busy 2026/27 season and has now added an experienced player who was recently released by Orlando Pirates.

Ben Youssef and Cedric Kaze co-coached Amakhosi last season following the exit of Tunisian Nasreddine Nabi just six games into the PSL campaign. The duo helped the Soweto giants to finish third on the table, but that was not enough to convince the management to retain them.

Today we bid farewell to the following players.

Thank you for your commitment, professionalism and contribution to Durban City FC

Read Full Club Statement👇https://t.co/k4PyHIkvmi

🔵⚪️🌊#Durbancityfc #Ourteamourcity pic.twitter.com/UhQ9L1FaSz

— Durban City FC (@DurbanCity_FC) June 29, 2026

While Ben Youssef was appointed as the Citizens’ coach, Cedric Kaze took over at Sekhukhune United. The former were promoted to the South African top tier at the beginning of the 2025/26 edition and went on to win the Nedbank Cup, which gave them the CAF Confederation Cup ticket.

Falakhe Tshanini, Odwa Nyulu, Joslin Kamatuka, Onele Rulwana, and Lindokuhle Chonco have been released by the club, while Emmanuel Jalai will be playing for Zimbabwe’s Scottland albeit on loan. Terrence Mashego, Taahir Goedeman, Ronaldo Maarman and Siphiwe Mahlangu have also left after concluding their loan deals.

Orlando Pirates reject confirmed

Welcome Bandile Shandu💙

Read the full club statement here:https://t.co/NTzFkE94A3

🔵⚪️🌊#Durbancityfc #Ourteamourcity pic.twitter.com/c4OoDDhdOh

— Durban City FC (@DurbanCity_FC) July 3, 2026

Ben Youssef has further signed ex-Orlando Pirates defender Bandile Shandu, who was let go by the Sea Robbers after the end of his contract.

The experienced right-back managed just four appearances across all competitions last season despite his team winning a treble.

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,” City said 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,” they added.

What

What is Shandu saying?

Initially, Shandu has stayed in KwaZulu-Natal while playing for Maritzburg United, and has since promised to deliver for his new team.

“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,” he opened up.

“I am looking forward to working with my new teammates and the technical team as we prepare for the season ahead.”