Shocking! UEFA Pro Licence holder set to replace Badela at Chippa United!

Belgian coach Luc Eymael is on the verge of becoming the new head coach of Chippa United, following the club’s decision to part ways with Sinethemba Badela after just two matches into the 2025/26 Betway Premiership season.

Eymael, who has managed 22 clubs across Africa and Europe, has been offered a 1-year deal with an option to extend for another year.

Known for his tactical discipline and extensive experience, Eymael is expected to arrive in South Africa within days to begin his tenure with the Eastern Cape-based outfit.

The End of the Badela Era?

Chippa United’s decision to dismiss Badela stems from a deepening rift with Sporting Director Sinesipho Mali, whose vision for the club clashed with the young coach’s approach.

Mali had outlined a long-term plan to build a self-sustaining model focused on developing underrated, high-potential talent in a high-performance environment.

To support this, the club hired former Orlando Pirates sports scientist Morten Ridgard and analyst Pranil Deen, formerly of Mamelodi Sundowns. However, Badela reportedly struggled to align with this vision.

He described the squad as “amateur” and questioned the quality of players brought in, leading to internal tensions over recruitment and squad planning.

Rejected Signings and Missed Opportunities?

Badela’s resistance to key signings further strained relations. He rejected moves for Thabiso Kutumela and Somila Ntsundwana, both of whom were targeted by the club to strengthen the attack. Kutumela has since impressed at CHAN, scoring twice and assisting twice, while Ntsundwana remains unattached but is training with Chippa again.

Badela also turned down Medupi Thokolo, citing concerns about his readiness. Thokolo later signed with Sekhukhune United and was named Man of the Match in their win over Orlando Pirates, highlighting what many at Chippa saw as a missed opportunity.

Shaky Start to the Season

On the pitch, Chippa United began their campaign with a 1–1 draw against defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns, followed by a narrow 1–0 loss to Durban City FC.

Despite flashes of promise, the club felt a change was necessary to avoid another season of instability.

Technical Team Overhaul

Alongside Badela, Chippa have parted ways with assistant coach Musa Nyatama, goalkeeper coach Thembalethu Moses, and performance analyst Prinil Deen, clearing the way for Eymael to assemble his own technical team.

Eymael’s Return: A Calculated Gamble?

Luc Eymael’s return to South African football is likely to spark debate. His previous stints with Free State Stars and Polokwane City were marked by tactical success but also controversy. However, Chippa United are banking on his experience to bring structure and results to a club that has seen over 20 coaching changes in the past decade.

Eymael’s immediate task will be to assess the squad, restore morale, and implement a system that aligns with the club’s ambitions under Mali’s leadership.

An official announcement is expected soon.