Luc Eymael Set to Take Over as Chippa United Head Coach, Replacing Sinethemba Badela
Luc Eymael is set to take over as Chippa United head coach, replacing Sinethemba Badela, as the Chilli Boys look to turn around their fortunes in the 2025/26 Betway Premiership season following a disappointing start.
Background to Chippa United’s Coaching Carousel and Badela’s Brief Tenure
Chippa United, known for their frequent managerial changes under chairman Siviwe “Chippa” Mpengesi, are on the verge of appointing Belgian coach Luc Eymael as their new head coach. This move comes after the abrupt dismissal of Sinethemba Badela, who was fired after just two matches in the new season. Badela, a former development coach at the club, was promoted to the top job in June 2025, replacing Thabo September, with high hopes of bringing innovation and stability to the Gqeberha-based side. However, his tenure lasted only a few weeks into the campaign, marred by poor results and reported internal conflicts.
The 2025/26 Betway Premiership kicked off in early August, and Chippa suffered defeats in their opening fixtures, including a 2-0 loss to Orlando Pirates and a 1-0 defeat to Richards Bay, leaving them at the bottom of the table without a point. Sources indicate that Badela’s sacking stemmed from a fractious relationship with the club’s sporting director, Sinesipho Mali, and insubordination issues. This is not uncommon for Chippa, who have cycled through over 20 coaches since entering the PSL in 2012, earning them the nickname “Chop and Change United.”
Badela’s departure also saw the exit of three other staff members, paving the way for a complete overhaul of the technical team. In the interim, former Moroka Swallows mentor Musa Nyatama was installed as head coach earlier in August 2025 to steady the ship. However, reports suggest Nyatama’s role is temporary, with Eymael poised to lead the new-look bench.
Luc Eymael’s Imminent Appointment and His South African Football History
Eymael, a 65-year-old Belgian tactician, emerged as the front-runner after speculation linked him to the role. He was spotted in Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth) on 21 August 2025, meeting with Chippa officials, including Mpengesi and his son. Sources confirm that Eymael has already arrived in South Africa and held discussions with the club, with an official unveiling expected soon. KickOff.com reported on 22 August 2025 that Eymael is the favourite to land the job, with the deal close to being finalised.
This marks Eymael’s return to South African football, where he has a mixed legacy. He previously coached Polokwane City from 2018 to 2019, achieving a respectable mid-table finish, and had a brief stint with Black Leopards in 2019. However, his time in the PSL was overshadowed by controversies, including alleged racist remarks in 2020 while coaching in Tanzania, which led to a FIFA ban and widespread criticism. Eymael has since managed clubs in Algeria, Morocco, and Libya, bringing a wealth of experience from across Africa and Europe.
Chippa shortlisted several candidates, including Abdeslam Ouaddou, Roger De Sa, and even a potential return for Badela, but Eymael’s track record in turning around struggling teams made him the top choice. At 65, Eymael is known for his tactical acumen and ability to work with limited resources, qualities that could suit Chippa’s often unpredictable squad.
Reasons Behind the Coaching Change and Club’s Challenges
Mpengesi’s impatience with underperformance is well-documented, and Badela’s quick exit fits the pattern. The chairman has defended his approach, arguing that results dictate decisions in professional football. “We need to act fast to avoid relegation battles,” a source close to the club told FARPost on 21 August 2025. Chippa finished 12th in the 2024/25 season under September but have struggled with consistency, often flirting with the drop zone.
The club has also undergone significant squad changes, releasing several players and signing new ones like Andile Jali and former Orlando Pirates stars. However, early season form has been dismal, with defensive frailties and a lack of goals evident. Eymael’s appointment is seen as a bid to inject discipline and experience, potentially leading a newly assembled technical team.
Fans and analysts have mixed reactions. Some welcome Eymael’s pedigree, while others recall his past controversies and question the fit. Social media buzzed on 22 August 2025, with X users like @UnplayableZA posting: “Luc Eymael set to take over as Chippa United head coach, replacing Sinethemba Badela.” Others, like @KickFutbol_, debated the wisdom of yet another change.
Potential Impact on Chippa United’s Season
If confirmed, Eymael could make his debut in Chippa’s next fixture against TS Galaxy on 30 August 2025, giving him limited time to implement changes. The club faces a tough run, including clashes with Mamelodi Sundowns and Kaizer Chiefs, where points are crucial to climb the table. Eymael’s style, often defensive and counter-attacking, could stabilise the team, but integrating with the squad quickly will be key. The Belgian has expressed enthusiasm for South African football in past interviews, noting its passion and talent pool.
Chippa’s management has remained tight-lipped, but insiders expect an announcement by the weekend of 23-24 August 2025. This latest twist adds to the PSL’s drama, where coaching stability remains elusive for clubs like Chippa.
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