With Hugo Broos’ emotional farewell now bringing an end to one of the most successful coaching spells in recent Bafana Bafana history, SAFA’s attention has firmly shifted to appointing his successor. FARPost understands that SAFA is eager to finalise the appointment of a new head coach in the coming days, with former Mamelodi Sundowns and Al Ahly mentor Pitso Mosimane remaining the leading candidate for the position.
The association wants to have the matter wrapped up well before Bafana’s next assignment in September, when they begin their 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign against Guinea.
The timing leaves little room for delays. With Broos’ contract expiring on 31 July and the national team’s next competitive fixture fast approaching, SAFA is under pressure to ensure a smooth transition and give the incoming coach sufficient time to assemble his technical team and begin preparations.
Mosimane has long been admired within SAFA circles and has repeatedly been linked with the national team job in recent months. His extensive CV, which includes success in South Africa, North Africa and the Middle East, makes him one of the most qualified South African coaches available.
The three-time CAF Champions League-winning coach recently expressed his desire to coach Bafana. Should negotiations proceed as expected, SAFA hopes to make an announcement shortly after Broos’ departure is formally confirmed.
NO ROOM FOR ERROR FOR SAFA AS MOSIMANE REMAINS IN POLE POSITION
The new coach is also expected to have significant input on the composition of his backroom staff. Several members of Broos’ technical team face uncertain futures. Assistant coach Helman Mkhalele and goalkeeper coach Grant Johnson are yet to receive clarity on whether they will continue under the next regime. This also includes conditioning coach Kopano Melesi and team doctor Tshepo Molobi.
Head tactical and performance analyst Sinesipho Mali has already moved to AmaZulu FC ahead of the new season. Melesi, who works for Mohau Nkota’s Al-Ettifaq in Saudi Arabia, has also made it clear he will no longer serve in the senior national team structures.
Broos is credited for transforming a struggling Bafana into one of the continent’s most competitive sides. He guided South Africa to consecutive AFCON tournaments and qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Now, the focus shifts to who will lead Bafana into the next chapter.
Meanwhile, with AFCON qualifying around the corner, SAFA knows it cannot afford to get this appointment wrong. All indications are that the search is nearing its conclusion. But unless there is a late twist, Mosimane remains the man in pole position to take over from the Belgian mentor.
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