The South African coach has finally addressed the long-standing rumours surrounding Durban City FC chairman and his alleged tendency to interfere with tactical decisions. The former Maritzburg United boss, who is now making waves in Morocco with Raja Casablanca, has provided a rare glimpse into the inner workings of one of South Africa's most prominent football administrators.
The former Masandawana head coach has welcomed the intense title race currently unfolding in the Premier Soccer League, insisting that the neck-and-neck battle between the Brazilians and Buccaneers is exactly what South African football needs. The three-time CAF Champions League winner believes the unpredictability of the current campaign has breathed new life into the domestic game as the season reaches its climax.
The 44-year-old South African coach of the Green Eagles was left fuming after his side's title ambitions took a massive hit during a chaotic "Classico" against the CAF Champions League finalists. The match was overshadowed by scenes of violence in the stands and a series of officiating decisions that have sparked a heated debate across the Moroccan top flight.
South Africa is among the 16 teams that made it out of the initial group stage after finishing second in their pool, which had the seven-time champions Egypt who eventually topped it, alongside COSAFA duo Zimbabwe and Angola, who were eliminated. Former Buccaneers tactician hopes to see his country in the final but has branded another team as the 'most dangerous.'
The 44‑year‑old coach took charge of Raja in September and has since collected 15 points from seven Botola Pro matches, lifting the club into fourth place. With Raja sitting five points behind leaders Wydad Athletic Club but holding a game in hand, Davids now turns his focus to the January window to strengthen his squad.
The former Mamelodi Sundowns attacker is a regular starter for the Moroccan giants, where he is one of their key players. After his impressive performances at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, the 32-year-old continues with his good form for the Casablanca side.
Manchester United, often simply referred to as "United," are one of the most iconic and successful football clubs in the world, based in Old Trafford, Greater Manchester, England. The club was founded as Newton Heath LYR Football Club in 1878 by the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway depot at Newton Heath. The team changed its name to Manchester United in 1902 and moved to its current home, Old Trafford, in 1910.
Famous players
Manchester United have been home to some of the greatest footballers in history. Sir Bobby Charlton, a World Cup winner with England in 1966, is arguably the most iconic figure in the club's history. Other legendary players include George Best, known for his flair and skill, and Eric Cantona, who brought a winning mentality to the club during the 1990s. More recent stars like Cristiano Ronaldo, Wayne Rooney, and Paul Scholes have also contributed significantly to the club's success.
Honours
Manchester United are one of the most decorated clubs in English football, having won a record 20 Premier League titles (formerly the First Division). They have also lifted the FA Cup 12 times, the League Cup five times, and the UEFA Champions League three times. The club's dominance in English football was particularly evident during the 1990s and early 2000s under manager Sir Alex Ferguson.
Managers
Sir Alex Ferguson is undoubtedly the most successful manager in Manchester United's history. He spent 26 years at the club, leading them to an unprecedented era of success. Before Ferguson, managers like Matt Busby and Wilf McGuinness played crucial roles in shaping the club's identity. More recent managers, including David Moyes, Louis van Gaal, and José Mourinho, have faced the challenge of maintaining the club's high standards.
Stadium
Old Trafford, often referred to as the "Theatre of Dreams," is one of the most famous stadiums in the world. With a capacity of roughly 75,000, it is among the largest football stadiums in the United Kingdom. The stadium has hosted numerous major matches, including UEFA Champions League finals and FIFA World Cup matches.
Location
Manchester United are based in the city of Manchester, which is located in the northwest of England. The club's home ground, Old Trafford, is situated in the Trafford borough. Manchester is a major industrial city with a rich footballing heritage.
Owners
In February 2024, British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe's company, INEOS, acquired a significant 25% stake in Manchester United. This acquisition granted Ratcliffe sporting control over the club, placing him in a position to influence key decisions related to its operations.
Ratcliffe has already made a substantial financial commitment to Manchester United. His large investments demonstrate his dedication to the club's success and his willingness to provide the necessary resources for its growth.
Frequently asked questions
When were Sunderland founded?
Initially founded as Sunderland and District Teachers A.F.C. in 1879, the club was renamed to Sunderland A.F.C. in October 1880. The club turned professional a decade later, when it joined The Football League ahead of the 1890-91 campaign.
Who are the owners of Sunderland?
Kyril Louis-Dreyfus (64% stake) and Juan Sartori (36% stake) are the co-owners of Sunderland. The former first acquired shares in February 2021, joining the latter who has been associated with the club since 2018.
What is Sunderland's stadium called?
Sunderland's home stadium is known as The Stadium of Light, which replaced the iconic Roker Park in 1997. Roker Park served as Sunderland's home ground for almost a century, from 1898 to 1997.
What is Stadium of Light's capacity?
The Stadium of Light has a capacity of 49,000, making it England's ninth-largest football stadium.
How many trophies have Sunderland won?
Sunderland have won a total of nine trophies, which includes six top-flight titles as well as two FA Cups.
How many Premier League (top flight) titles have Sunderland won?
Sunderland have clinched the English top-flight title on six occasions. Their first win came in the 1891-92 season, while they haven't won a single league title since going all the way at the end of the 1935-36 campaign.
Who has made the most appearances for Crystal Palace?
Former English goalkeeper Jimmy Montgomery holds the record for making the most appearances in Sunderland history. Montgomery made 627 appearances between 1960 and 1977 and was a part of the Sunderland team that won the 1973 FA Cup.
Who is Sunderland's all-time top goalscorer?
The Sunderland faithful will never forget the contributions of legendary striker Bobby Gurney, who churned out 228 goals in 390 appearances in what is a club record.
Which famous players have played for Sunderland?
Charlie Hurley, Simon Mignolet, John O'Shea, Jordan Pickford, Jermain Defoe, Bobby Kerr, and Jimmy Montgomery are among the most prominent players to have donned the Sunderland shirt.
Which famous managers have been in charge of Sunderland?
Bob Kyle, Roy Keane, and Sam Allardyce are among Sunderland's most famous managers.
What is Sunderland's nickname?
Previously known as The Rokermen when they played at Roker Park, Sunderland are now officially nicknamed The Black Cats based on 10,000 votes cast by the supporters through the official magazine in 2000. The nickname originates from the names of battery guns which protected the mouth of the River Wear in the 18th century.