GQEBERHA, South Africa — South African Premiership club Chippa United has parted ways with head coach Luc Eymael, marking its fourth managerial change in just three months as the team continues to battle poor form and relegation concerns.
Eymael, a Belgian tactician with experience coaching in more than 10 African countries, resigned Wednesday after a brief and turbulent tenure. Appointed in late August, he managed only one win in seven matches across league and cup competitions. His stint began with a 3-0 home defeat to Orlando Pirates and ended following a 4-1 loss to Richards Bay in the Carling Knockout Cup.
In a statement signed by Sporting Director Sinesipho Mali, the club confirmed Eymael’s departure and announced the return of Vusumuzi “Kanu” Vilakazi for a second spell as head coach.
“Chippa United FC confirms a mutual separation with Head Coach Luc Eymael,” the statement read. “We thank him for his professionalism and wish him all the best in his future endeavors. We are pleased to welcome back Kanu Vilakazi as the new Head Coach. Familiar with our club’s values and ambitions, he is well-placed to lead us forward in the Betway Premiership League.”
The club also thanked its supporters, promising to “bounce back stronger as the Chilli Boys.”
Chippa United’s 2025 season has been marked by instability. The campaign began with Sinethemba Badela, who was dismissed after just two matches. His successors, Musa Nyatama and Morgan Mammila, each lasted a single game before being replaced.
Founded in 2010 by businessman Siviwe Mpengesi, the club has developed a reputation for frequent coaching changes. Mpengesi, who built his fortune in the trolley retrieval business, is known for swift decisions on managerial appointments — a pattern that has often led to instability and near-relegation finishes.
Currently sitting at the bottom of the Premiership table, Chippa United faces a difficult road ahead. The club is home to Nigeria’s Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, who has conceded 17 goals in 10 matches this season.
Despite the turmoil, the team remains hopeful that Vilakazi’s return will help restore stability and improve results in the weeks to come.
