Durban City FC have officially announced the appointment of Khalil Ben Youssef as the club’s new head coach ahead of the 2026/27 season.
The 37-year-old Tunisian tactician joins the club as it embarks on an exciting new chapter following a historic period of growth and success.
Ben Youssef holds a CAF A Licence and brings a wealth of coaching experience gained across Africa and the Middle East. During his career, he has worked in Tunisia, Morocco, Tanzania, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, earning a reputation for his tactical expertise and ability to build competitive teams.
His coaching journey includes spells at AS FAR Rabat, Young Africans SC, Club Africain and Al Ahli SC. Most recently, he was part of the Kaizer Chiefs technical team, where he gained valuable experience in the highly competitive Betway Premiership.
With Durban City set to compete in the Betway Premiership, domestic cup competitions and the CAF Confederation Cup next season, the appointment signals the club’s ambition to continue growing both on and off the field.
Club chairman Farook Kadodia believes Ben Youssef is the right man to lead the next phase of the club’s development.
“Khalil is a coach with strong experience, excellent technical knowledge and a clear understanding of the modern game,” said Kadodia.
“We believe he is the right person to lead the next phase of Durban City Football Club’s journey. Over the past two seasons, we have built a strong foundation and our focus now is to continue growing the club both on and off the field.”
“We are confident that Khalil possesses the leadership, character and football philosophy required to help us achieve our ambitions, and we are delighted to welcome him to Durban City FC.”
Ben Youssef expressed his gratitude after being unveiled as the club’s new head coach.
“I am honoured to join Durban City FC and would like to thank the chairman, the board of directors and everyone at the club for the trust they have placed in me,” he said.
“This is an ambitious club with a clear vision for the future and I am excited to begin working with the players and technical staff as we prepare for the season ahead.”
“My focus is on building a competitive team that reflects the values and ambitions of Durban City FC.”
The appointment marks a new era for Durban City as they prepare for the challenges of top-flight football and continental competition in the upcoming campaign.