Durban City FC are wasting no time. The Betway Premiership newcomers have confirmed eight new signings ahead of the 2026/27 season, signalling clear ambition after a debut campaign that exceeded every expectation. Gaston Sirino, Junior Papier, Kabelo Mofokeng, Lifa Makua, Siya Msomi, John Mokone, Tylo Sanger and Seth Green have all already joined the squad in training.

Strong Debut Season Sets Foundation

The context matters here. In their first-ever PSL season, Durban City did not just survive — they thrived. The club lifted the Nedbank Cup, beating TS Galaxy 2-1 in the final, and finished eighth on 37 points from 30 matches, enough to earn a place in the MTN8. They even dented Orlando Pirates' title celebrations late in the campaign. That is a debut season most established clubs would envy.

New Coach to Lead Ambitious Project

The challenge now is building on it. Khalil Ben Youssef, the 37-year-old Tunisian who previously served as co-head coach at Kaizer Chiefs, has been appointed to lead the side following Pitso Dladla's departure to Golden Arrows. The eight arrivals already training suggest Ben Youssef is not easing into the job. Chairman Farook Kadodia has set the targets clearly: a top-eight finish, more domestic silverware, and a strong showing in what will be the club's first-ever CAF Confederation Cup campaign.

That continental angle makes this recruitment drive even more significant. Durban City will need depth to manage a Premiership campaign alongside CAF commitments — and eight additions in one announcement suggests the club understands exactly what lies ahead.