Mpho Makola: ‘We have to be examplary….’
Former Orlando Pirates star Mpho Makola has given insights into what retired footballers must do to be successful in youth coaching.
Makola says he is making good strides after embarking on the grooming of young talent path.
The 38-year-old decided to call time on his professional footballer career in 2024 having last played for Polokwane City.
After announcing his retirement from the game, Makola quickly shifted focus to grooming young talent.
The former midfielder is fully invested in seeing his budding team, Via Sports FC excel and produce players that will reach the elite league.
MPHO MAKOLA SHARES HIS INSIGHTS
In an interview with FARPost, Makola said: “One thing I have noticed is that the current young generation no longer have the passion.
“For us, football was probably one of the few ways to kick out poverty. We loved it because we knew our lives would change because of it.
“But now, they have some many options. So they will look at you and see what you are doing with your life before making a choice.
“So we must be examplary, so that they can look up to us and say we can be like that or more. They want to know what you are doing with your life.
“These young boys need inspiration because the way they view the world now is different from how we perceived it.
“So far, my journey in talent idenfication has been smooth but of course with a bit of challenges.
“But I can assure you that it won’t be long before some of the players I am identifying reach the Betway Premiership.”
Makola had a decent career particularly at Orlando Pirates where he made 178 appearances, scoring 21 goals and providing 28 assists.
He also played for Cape Town City FC and Free State Stars, with Polokwane City being his last PSL club. At Bafana Bafana level, he made 11 appearances, with two goals under his belt.
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