Ertugral: My Sync Game is Strong

Cape Town City coach Muhsin Ertugral firmly addressed suggestions that his coaching strategies might be out of touch, citing his over 20 years of experience in South African football.

Ertugral defended his credentials by highlighting his previous role as the technical advisor for the Turkish national team before stepping in as Cape Town City’s coach in January after Eric Tinkler’s departure.

He also noted his recent involvement with FIFA, where he participated in the FIFA Technical Study Group during the FIFA World Cup and the European Championship held in Germany in June and July.

Concerns regarding Ertugral’s capabilities emerged after City’s 2-1 defeat to Orlando Pirates in the Betway Premiership at Orlando Stadium on Saturday, marking their fifth straight away match without a win since he was appointed.

Notably, City has not secured a win against Orlando Pirates at Orlando Stadium since John Comitis acquired the club’s status from Mpumalanga Black Aces and rebranded it just before the 2016/17 season.

The loss against Pirates marked Cape Town City’s third consecutive defeat in the league, placing them 10th in the Betway Premiership with 21 points from 19 matches.

“You seem biased. Did you check my accomplishments?” Ertugral challenged.

“I was the head technical advisor for the Turkish national team. What does that represent? Excuse me.”

“I led the Turkish national team. Do you really believe I’m out of touch with international football? What are you suggesting?”

“I’m trying to understand your perspective. I haven’t been in direct coaching, but I was heavily involved in two European Championships, World Cup qualifiers, and collaborated with some of the world’s top players.”

“Does that mean I’m disconnected from the game? That query feels somewhat unjust. I won’t engage with it.”

As Orlando Pirates’ media officer, Thandi Merafe, stepped in for one last question, Ertugral expressed, “Incredible,” followed by a sarcastic chuckle.

After a brief moment, seemingly stirred, Ertugral asked, “Which foreign coach has come here from a national team and is now in the PSL?”

“There are some achievements to note. Look it up; I have seven trophies in total.”

“Seven trophies. So, I can offer you significant insights. I was actively contributing to the Turkish national team. I wasn’t absent from the game; I find your statement disrespectful.”

The trophies Ertugral referenced include the CAF Confederations Cup with Kaizer Chiefs in 2001, the Absa Cup with Ajax Cape Town in 2007, the Telkom Knockout in the 2007/08 season, and the MTN8 in the 2008/09 season, all won with Kaizer Chiefs.

Since taking the helm at Cape Town City, Ertugral has led the team to victories against his former clubs, Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates, and received the January Coach of the Month accolade.

However, during his tenure, Cape Town City has recorded only three wins, two draws, and six losses over ten matches, remaining winless in their last six games across all competitions.

At the conclusion of the season, Ertugral will assume the position of technical director at the club.