Not me! Ex-Kaizer tactician refutes claims he is the reason PSL club is firing coaches

Former Kaizer Chiefs coach Ernst Middendorp has refuted claims that he is the reason why Durban City are making regular changes in the technical department.

At the start of the season, the Citizens opted to part ways with Simo Dladla in favour of another ex-Amakhosi coach, Gavin Hunt. The tactician had been in the cold for months following his exit from a now-defunct SuperSport United.

Middendorp left his role as the club’s Technical Director after a reported fallout with Hunt regarding the tactics employed. Shortly after the firing of Hunt, the German was re-hired by the club.

Sinethemba Badela, who had also parted ways with Chippa United, succeeded the now Stellenbosch coach. But he lasted just three weeks before leaving, with reports having it that it happened owing to contradicting ideologies in terms of tactics.

Is Middendorp the problem?

Fingers have been pointed at Middendorp for playing a role in the decision made by the management, allegations he has refuted.

I was not connected to Durban City FC at the time the club released Gavin Hunt at the end of November 2025. I left the club at the end of September 2025,” he posted on his LinkedIn account.

“Officially, I joined Durban City FC on 15 December 2025 in the role of Technical Director again. I have no interest in, nor have I pursued, the position of Head Coach at Durban City FC.

“There has never been any intention or scenario in which I would follow Themba Badela in the Head Coach role.

“Throughout my tenure, I have fully supported the Head Coach, both professionally and structurally, in line with my mandate as Technical Director and in the best interests of the club,” Middendorp concluded.