Ahead of the 2026/27 season and the match against AmaZulu in Durban on Saturday, football club Stellenbosch FC is facing a serious squad review and a crisis regarding playing venues.
Changes in the team's squad
The team from Winelands enters the new season after significant personnel changes, as several important players have left the club. Among those who departed are Thabo Mlolisane, Ibrahim Jabbar, Mtheteleli Mtyane, and Omega Mdaka. The situation is compounded by the high-profile transfer of Tapelo Mokobodi to Orlando Pirates, which has further narrowed Gavin Hunt's options.
Furthermore, talented player Langelihle Phili remains closely linked with a move to Kaizer Chiefs. Hunt gave a pragmatic assessment of managing the team during this transitional period amid ongoing rumors about the transfers of his best players.
Coach's comments on readiness
Regarding Phili, Hunt stated: 'It is obvious that you do not want to lose a player; he is one of the most sought-after assets in South Africa.' He added that 'it is obvious that contractual circumstances are coming into play. There has been a lot of media speculation about his future. We will see what happens over the next few days.'
Commenting on the intense pre-season period marked by these departures, the experienced coach was very candid about his team's readiness. Hunt emphasized: 'If a coach says they are ready after pre-season, he is lying.' He explained that 'you can never be ready after pre-season because a lot happens, with players moving back and forth. From that point of view, it was a difficult period, but you try to put everything together. I hope we can get straight into the game. This is football; the demands are higher, the pressure is higher. You just have to move step by step.'
Administrative issues with rentals
To the personnel problems, an administrative complication off the field was added. Initially, Stellenbosch was supposed to host the Usuthu team at home, but now they are forced to give up the home advantage, and the match has been moved to Durban. Stellenbosch's regular home ground, Dani Craven Stadium, is unavailable due to an international rugby tournament, and the Athlon stadium is occupied by touring New Zealand All Blacks as part of their tour of South Africa.
For Hunt, starting the campaign without a home arena presents an undesirable obstacle. 'It is frustrating that it is stadiums, the lack of a stadium where you can play, you always play away,' admitted Hunt. 'It puts a lot of pressure on us.'
Team goals for the season
Despite external difficulties and the absence of key personnel, Stellies remain determined to be competitive against the league's top teams, although Hunt keeps expectations realistic. When asked if he aims for trophies this season, Hunt replied: 'Obviously, we want to compete, and we will compete in every game we play. But you have to be realistic, make the squad play, and try to score as many points as possible. That always gives momentum.'
