SA premiership side Durban City sign Zimbabwe international

By Agencies

SOUTH AFRICA: Durban City Football Club have acquired the services of Zimbabwean international right-back Emmanuel Jalai (27), who joins the Citizens midway through the 2025/26 season.

The 27-year-old right-back joins the club from Dynamos FC in Zimbabwe, where he spent six years and made over 180 senior appearances.

Jalai also captained the Harare-based outfit for three seasons, demonstrating his leadership and professionalism on and off the pitch.

Dynamos confirmed that his no.2 jersey will be temporarily retired for the upcoming 2026 campaign – a testament to his contribution and grave importance.

Jalai brings valuable international experience, having represented the Zimbabwe Warriors at the recently held Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Speaking after completing his move, Jalai said: “I’m honoured to join Durban City FC. This is a new challenge for me, and I’m looking forward to giving my all for the badge and contributing to the club’s ambitions.”

The signing forms part of Durban City FC’s long-term strategy to strengthen the squad and build for the future.

“We are pleased to welcome Emmanuel Jalai to Durban City FC. He brings international experience and a strong footballing profile that aligns with the direction of the club. We believe he will add depth and quality to the squad as we move forward,” Club Chairman Farook Kadodia said.

Jalai has already linked up with his new teammates as the squad prepares for the remainder of the 2025/26 campaign.

Durban City FC said they “warmly welcome Emmanuel Jalai to the Citizens family and look forward to a successful journey together.”

Jalai will work under recently appointed head coach Sinethemba Badela at City.

He becomes the third signing for the KwaZulu-Natal outfit in the ongoing window, following the arrival of Ronaldo Maarman and Siphiwe Mahlangu on loan from Sekhukhune United.

Badela will take charge of his first match against Polokwane City on Sunday, with the club sitting eighth, having picked up 22 points in 15 league outings.