Richards Bay Set For Shock Coaching Reunion As Pitso Dladla Prepares To Replace Pantev

Richards Bay FC are reportedly preparing for another major change in their technical team, with former head coach Pitso Dladla expected to return to the club amid growing uncertainty surrounding the future of Bulgarian tactician Dimitar Pantev.

The Natal Rich Boyz have endured a difficult start to the 2026/27 Betway Premiership campaign, with their disappointing results raising serious concerns about the direction of the team. The club's management is now believed to be considering a familiar face in an attempt to revive its fortunes and restore confidence within the squad.

According to reports by iDiski Times, Richards Bay are set to re-appoint Dladla, who previously worked with the KwaZulu-Natal outfit and understands the club's structure and expectations.

The potential reunion comes at a time when Pantev's position has become increasingly uncertain following a disappointing spell in charge.

The Bulgarian coach was appointed in September after Ronnie Gabriel's departure, with the responsibility of turning around the club's struggling campaign. However, the expected improvement has not materialised, leaving the management facing difficult decisions barely weeks after his appointment.

Richards Bay have struggled to collect points in the league and currently find themselves at the bottom end of the standings. Their problems have also extended to cup competitions, where they suffered an early exit from the Carling Knockout following a 3-1 defeat against Sekhukhune United.

Their disappointing run continued with another 3-1 loss against Kruger United, further increasing the pressure on the technical team.

Pantev's situation is particularly challenging because he arrived with an impressive coaching background, having previously worked with clubs such as Simba SC, Jwaneng Galaxy and Gaborone United. He also guided Gaborone United to the Botswana Premier League title during the 2024/25 season.

However, his experience has so far failed to translate into the desired results at Richards Bay.

Dladla, meanwhile, represents a familiar option for the club. He previously made a positive contribution during his time with the Natal Rich Boyz, notably guiding them to Nedbank Cup success as an interim coach last season.

His previous experience at the club could prove valuable, particularly with Richards Bay desperately needing stability and a turnaround in results.

The possible appointment would represent another significant coaching change for the KwaZulu-Natal outfit, which has already experienced considerable instability this season.

Although an official announcement is still awaited, all eyes will be on Richards Bay's management as they look to make a decision that could determine the direction of their campaign.

Source https://x.com/iDiskiTimes/status/2117859389545603385?a=xgJ4ald-zyfr1V9-vT0&s=19