Pitso Mosimane reiterates desire for Bafana Bafana return as SAFA prepare to name new coach

Experienced tactician Pitso Mosimane has openly expressed his ambition to take charge of the South African national team once again, admitting that leading Bafana Bafana remains a strong desire despite insisting that the final decision does not rest with him.

The highly decorated South African coach has been shortlisted among the candidates being considered to succeed Hugo Broos, with the Belgian tactician expected to step down from his role as Bafana Bafana head coach in the near future.

Mosimane, who previously guided South Africa’s senior national team between 2010 and 2012, has enjoyed a successful coaching career both locally and abroad, winning major trophies with clubs across Africa, Asia and the Middle East. His achievements have made him one of the most respected coaches on the continent.

Speaking about the vacant position, Mosimane clarified that he has not been appointed as Broos’ successor but admitted that returning to the national team setup would be a dream opportunity.

“It’s not me taking over, Rob,” said Mosimane about the soon-to-be vacant position.

“I wish. Yes, it’s my desire, why not? But I don’t make the call. It’s not only me. Everybody has been there and had a conversation and some people don’t even say it like I say it that they’ve been there.”

The former Al Ahly and Mamelodi Sundowns coach revealed that several candidates have presented their credentials, including their plans on how they would help take Bafana Bafana to the next level.

“They submitted their CVs. They submitted their plan of how we’re going to take this thing from where it is and take it to a higher level, right?” he added.

Mosimane also suggested that he is not the only coach interested in the role, explaining that other contenders have also engaged with the relevant authorities but have chosen not to speak publicly about their ambitions.

“So, they don’t say. It’s many, many people, okay. And I’m not asking why you’re picking on me. I guess the minister has said some things and that created also a little bit of noise.”

The possibility of Mosimane returning to Bafana Bafana has generated significant debate among South African football supporters, with many believing his experience at the highest level could help the national team build on recent progress.

During his previous tenure, Mosimane led Bafana Bafana through a transitional period and later went on to establish himself as one of Africa’s most successful coaches, winning domestic league titles and continental honours with clubs such as Mamelodi Sundowns and Al Ahly.

As South Africa prepares for a new era after Broos, Mosimane’s name remains one of the most prominent in the discussion, although the final decision will ultimately be made by the South African Football Association (SAFA).