South Africa’s Maritzburg United made an unexpected announcement on November 29th. The latest coaching director for the football club has been revealed, with Ernst Middendorp taking the role of Head Coach. It’ll mark the fourth instance that Middendorp has coached Maritzburg United. Nobody anticipated this legendary coach to sustain another stint with this football club. That would change when Eric Tinkler was terminated from Maritzburg United, which came after maintaining a horrendous start in 2020s PSL Campaign.
Personnel with Maritzburg United have praised owners for electing Middendorp as Head Coach. Chairman Farook Kadodia spoke on Ernst returning to the organization, with Kadodia evoking confidence that an experience coaching director has returned from Germany. Chairman Farook believes Ernst Middendorp will have the training skillsets required to return Maritzburg United to legend.
An official statement from the team was issued, with Maritzburg United expressing a warm welcome towards their legendary coaching director & thanked him for renewing their formidable relationship. It was mentioned that Ernst Middendorp’s temperament, knowledge of football, and challenging experience in South Africa’s PSL would drive Maritzburg United forward. Sentiments ended by informing team personnel that co-operation is expected & that trust amongst each other is needed to move onwards.
The History
Ernst Middendorp has maintained an extensive history throughout the Premier Soccer League. His relationship with Maritzburg United began in November 2009, with Middendorp previously coaching the Kaizer Chiefs. The timespan that Ernst Middendorp sustained with each employment at Maritzburg United was minimal but influential. He’d rejoin the organization in January 2012, October 2013, and December 2015.
Ernst Middendorp’s most prominent moment was during the 2015/16 PSL Championship. His coaching skillsets would enable the team to avoid losing & acquire the trophy. Unsurprisingly, with being Maritzburg United’s last winning coach, he has been reacquired during a period of fluctuating wins & losses. It’ll be hoped that Ernst Middendorp will provide Maritzburg United with the coaching needed to sustain regular wins again.
