Ernst Middendorp has confirmed his surprise departure from Durban City, marking the end of his second short spell at the club.
The German tactician initially joined the KwaZulu-Natal outfit at the start of the season as Technical Director, working alongside then head coach Gavin Hunt.
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However, after reported disagreements with Hunt, he parted ways with the club in October.
Following Hunt’s exit, Middendorp returned in December to resume his role, this time working with new head coach Sinethemba Badela. Badela’s tenure proved brief, lasting just three matches before his dismissal.
In another unexpected twist, Middendorp has now left Durban City once again. According to iDiski Times sources, he had recently been suspended for two matches and was noticeably absent from his usual place in the stands.
Middendorp has since confirmed his exit, stating that he believes he made a meaningful contribution toward building the club’s structure and assembling a balanced squad ahead of their debut top-flight campaign.
“My time at Durban City FC has come to an end,” said Middendorp on his LinkedIn account.
“As of February 2026, Durban City FC are enjoying a very positive season in the PSL, currently positioned strongly within the Top-8.
“For a newly promoted team, maintaining a consistent Top-8 position reflects strategic planning, squad balance, and collective belief.
“In addition, the club has reached the Quarter-Final stage of the Nedbank Cup, underlining the competitive spirit and ambition within the squad.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute my experience and expertise to this successful journey. My focus was on strengthening the club’s football structure, aligning recruitment and performance processes, and providing strategic clarity.
“A key part of my contribution as Technical Director was recruiting and shaping a well-balanced squad for the first PSL season.
“The focus was on combining experience and leadership with emerging talent, ensuring positional depth, tactical flexibility, and strong character within the group.
“I sincerely wish the club continued success in the remaining 12 PSL games and further progress in the Nedbank Cup.”
The club also released a statement confirming that the German tactician had concluded his short-term contract at the Durban-based outfit.
“Durban City FC confirms that Technical Director Ernst Middendorp has completed his short-term contract with the club, having fulfilled the specific mandate for which he was engaged.
“Middendorp rejoined Durban City FC on 15 December 2025. His brief focused on stabilising and strengthening the club’s technical structures during a period of transition, and that mandate has now been brought to its planned conclusion.
“The club thanks Ernst Middendorp for his professionalism and commitment during his time with us and wishes him success in his future endeavours.”
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