BOMBSHELL AT RICHARDS BAY: PITSO DLADLA SET FOR SHOCK RETURN AS DIMITAR PANTEV FACES UNCERTAIN FUTURE

SOUTH AFRICAN FOOTBALL NEWS | 4 NOVEMBER 2026

Richards Bay FC could be preparing for another major coaching shake-up, with former head coach Pitso Dladla reportedly emerging as the leading candidate to return to the club amid growing uncertainty surrounding the future of current manager Dimitar Pantev.

The Natal Rich Boyz are enduring a difficult start to the 2026/27 Betway Premiership campaign, with their disappointing performances raising serious questions about the direction of the team.

According to reports by iDiski Times, Richards Bay are understandably looking at bringing back Dladla, who previously enjoyed a successful spell with the KwaZulu-Natal outfit.

The potential return comes at a particularly challenging moment for the club, who have struggled to find consistency and are yet to register a league victory after nine matches.

Pantev was appointed as head coach in September following the departure of Ronnie Gabriel, with the club hoping that his experience in African football would help turn their fortunes around.

However, the Bulgarian tactician has so far failed to deliver the immediate improvement expected, with Richards Bay continuing to struggle for positive results.

Their disappointing league performances have been compounded by an early exit from the Carling Knockout competition, further increasing the pressure on the technical team.

Dladla, meanwhile, remains an attractive option because of his previous connection with the club and knowledge of the Richards Bay environment.

The former coach has already demonstrated his ability to guide the Natal Rich Boyz to success, having led the team to Nedbank Cup glory last season during his time as interim coach.

His achievements have seemingly strengthened his position as a potential replacement should the club decide to make another change in the dugout.

There is also an important familiarity factor, as bringing back someone who understands the club's structure, players and expectations could provide a quicker solution than appointing another unfamiliar coach.

Nevertheless, the situation remains delicate, particularly because Pantev has had limited time to implement his football philosophy since arriving at the club.

Richards Bay's management must now consider whether to continue giving the Bulgarian coach an opportunity or make another decisive intervention to rescue their season.

For supporters, the possibility of Dladla returning will undoubtedly attract attention, considering his previous contribution to the club's history.

Although no official announcement has been made regarding Pantev's departure or Dladla's possible appointment, the coming days could prove crucial for the future of Richards Bay FC.

One thing is clear: the Natal Rich Boyz desperately need a turnaround, and another coaching decision could be just around the corner.

Source https://x.com/iDiskiTimes/status/2117859389545603385/photo/1