Eric Tinkler Reportedly Closing In on Durban City Return
Eric Tinkler could be heading back to KwaZulu-Natal, with Durban City reportedly closing in on the South African coach following his sudden departure from Asante Kotoko.
According to journalist Sinethemba Makonco of iDiski Times, Tinkler is in the final stages of a move to Durban City. The development comes just hours after Ghanaian giants Asante Kotoko confirmed that the coach had been released from his contract at his own request for personal reasons.
Tinkler only joined Kotoko in July and spent a little over two months in charge. During his short spell in Ghana, he guided the Porcupine Warriors to the 2026 Democracy Cup, but his league campaign ended with a 2-0 defeat to Aduana FC at the weekend.
Durban City move quickly
A return to the Betway Premiership would see Tinkler back in familiar territory.
Durban City have already been linked with the former Orlando Pirates and Sekhukhune United coach earlier this year, before ultimately appointing Khalil Ben Youssef. Tinkler was reportedly among the candidates considered for the position at the time.
The club have since gone through another coaching change, with Ben Youssef departing after the start of the 2026/27 campaign.
Tinkler now appears to be in line for another opportunity in South Africa, with reports suggesting the deal could be finalised soon.
A familiar name in the PSL
The former Bafana Bafana midfielder brings extensive experience of South African football, having coached Orlando Pirates, Cape Town City, SuperSport United, Chippa United, Maritzburg United and Sekhukhune United.
His previous spell with Maritzburg United is particularly relevant, with that club later becoming Durban City.
If the reported move is completed, Tinkler will inherit a Durban City side looking for stability after a period of considerable change on the technical bench.
For now, the move remains a reported development, but all signs point towards Tinkler making a quick return to the South African touchline.
