Cape Town City have sacked veteran coach Muhsin Ertugral following a string of poor results that have left the Citizens in the relegation zone.
The former Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates mentor Ertugral was appointed as City’s caretaker coach at the beginning of the year, taking over from coach Eric Tinkler.
The initial plan was for the Turkish-born tactician to move into the technical director at the end of the campaign and make way for a new coach to take charge next season.
The poor results have seen even that deal being pushed off the table by City’s management.
Ertugral made an interesting return to the Premier Soccer League after a long absence, claiming three victories in January to be crowned the Coach of the Month.
However, things took the worst turn for him and his troops as the team went for 10 matches without a win in all competitions, forcing chairman John Comitis’ hand to send him packing.
“After technical discussions, the club and Muhsin Ertugral have agreed mutually to part ways,” City wrote on their X social media page.
“The decision comes as a collective in the best interest of the club as we look to end the 24/25 season as strong as possible. We thank Muhsin for his professional and earnest contribution.”
Ertugral’s last win was against Richards Bay on January 17 in a league match.
After 23 matches, the Citizens are in position 13 with 23 points, two points above the playoff spot held by Gavin Hunt’s SuperSport United.
The Capetonians are 15 points above Royal AM, who had only played 11 matches before their fixtures got suspended by the league.
This after the South African Revenue Services took control of the club in a bid to recoup about R40 million tax owed by club boss Shauwn “MaMkhize” Mkhize.
Ertugral’s last match was the 1-0 defeat to Maumo Gallants on Saturday.
Written by Sithembiso Dindi