2026 World Cup: South Africa Sports Minister offers support to Sipho Mbule after omission from Bafana squad

Minister Gayton McKenzie has publicly offered encouragement to Sipho Mbule after the midfielder was omitted from Bafana Bafana’s preliminary squad for the FIFA World Cup, a decision that has intensified scrutiny over his recent decline in form.

Mbule, once a central figure in the national team setup and a contributor to South Africa’s qualification campaign as well as the most recent Africa Cup of Nations, has struggled to maintain consistency at club level.

His 2026 campaign at Orlando Pirates has been limited to a handful of appearances, with reduced playing time widely viewed as a key factor behind his exclusion.

The midfielder, popularly known as “Masterchef” for his creativity in midfield, has also been the subject of reports linking him to off-field issues, including alleged alcohol-related concerns, further clouding his professional outlook.

McKenzie offers public support

Following the squad announcement on Thursday, McKenzie took to social media to defend the player and urge him to rebuild his career trajectory.

“A king that gave us so much, this is your moment to cook part two of your greatness. Your best years are ahead of you in football. Let the fools laugh at you, you have given us so so much Champ,” McKenzie posted on X.

The message quickly gained traction online, drawing both praise and criticism as fans debated whether such public encouragement would motivate Mbule or add further pressure amid his current struggles.

Fans split over Mbule’s future

Supporters reacted sharply to Mbule’s omission, with the discussion dominating social media after the preliminary squad was released. Some called for patience and discipline, stressing that the midfielder still has time to recover his form, while others pointed to lifestyle concerns as a major obstacle to his revival.

“All the best for the young man but it will take discipline to achieve all the greatness,” wrote user @Law_Jabs.

Another added, “The king must just leave alcohol. Period.” Others referenced former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Dumisani Zuma as a cautionary example of unfulfilled potential, while some argued for structured intervention, including rehabilitation and professional support systems. A minority of fans, however, questioned whether Mbule should continue to be viewed as a role model at the top level.