Richards Bay have confirmed that the club have parted ways with Vusumuzi Vilakazi and replaced him with Brandon Truter.
The decision comes as a surprise after ‘Kanu’ guided the club through safety via the playoffs, going unbeaten against Baroka FC and AmaTuks.
However, during the announcement of the new sponsors, Phakwe Gas, who are understood to be pumping up to R100 million into the club, it was claimed that the club are looking for an experienced coach.
Vilakazi himself told this publication last week that he was confident to continue and was targeting silverware and top eight in 2024/25, while Rulani Mokwena had confirmed he did receive a surprise offer from the Natal Rich Boyz before opting for Wydad Athletic Club.
Vilakazi had won 12 of his 24 games in charge, including wins over Orlando Pirates, Stellenbosch FC and Kaizer Chiefs, drawing four and losing eight.
On Tuesday, Bay chairman Sifiso Biyela confirmed on Metro FM the club had parted ways with Vilakazi, saying the coach actually resigned over some contractual disagreements, while on Wednesday the club announced the arrival of Truter, as reported by iDiski Times.
“Richards Bay Football Club would like to announce the appointment of Brandon Truter as the Clubs new Head Coach for the season 2024/2025 with an option to renew,” the club stated.
“Coach Brandon Truter is a familiar face in the South African Football, he’s a former Coach of Sekhukhune United. He is also a familiar face in Richards Bay FC having coached the club during the 2018/2019 season.
“He brings a lot of experience to the Club. We welcome him on his new role and wish him all the best.”
Truter was last in charge as Technical Director of Upington City, following stints with Sekhukhune United, AmaZulu and Moroka Swallows since his first stint at the Natal Richboyz.
