Gavin Hunt axed
SuperSport United has parted ways with head coach Gavin Hunt as the team struggles to avoid relegation from the Betway Premiership.
The decision comes after a string of poor results left the club in a precarious position near the bottom of the table.
Currently sitting 15th, just one spot above the suspended Royal AM, SuperSport United’s form has raised concerns within the club.
Despite recently being celebrated for reaching a career milestone during a match against Lamontville Golden Arrows in Pretoria, Hunt’s position became increasingly vulnerable following a series of disappointing performances.
The team’s hopes of silverware were dashed when they were eliminated from the Nedbank Cup quarter-finals by Orlando Pirates in a tense penalty shootout.
According to an insider, Hunt had previously requested to step down, but management urged him to remain in charge with the condition of either winning the Nedbank Cup or reaching the final.
“He was told to focus on the Pirates game, but after that loss, it was clear his time was up. His mandate was to secure a top-eight finish like last season, but the results weren’t there,” the source revealed.
Following the abandoned match against Golden Arrows on February 23, SuperSport United’s struggles deepened with consecutive losses to Magesi FC, Richards Bay, and TS Galaxy, along with a goalless draw against AmaZulu.
“With Magesi winning again over the weekend, the pressure became too much. The club needs fresh ideas to avoid relegation,” the source added.
In the wake of Hunt’s departure, assistant coach Andre Arendse has stepped in as interim manager for the remaining nine league fixtures.
Tasked with steering the club to safety, Arendse is expected to stabilize the team and boost morale. “Andre knows the players well and understands the club’s culture. His focus is to guide the team to a respectable finish,” said the insider.
Hunt’s exit concludes his third stint with SuperSport United, a club he first joined in 2007.
Over his long coaching career, he has also led teams such as Moroka Swallows, Kaizer Chiefs, and Chippa United.
After returning to SuperSport United in 2022, hopes were high for a revival, but the team’s recent struggles have forced a change in leadership as they fight to preserve their Premiership status.
