Pitso Mosimane backs Hugo Broos’ legacy after returning as Bafana Bafana head coach

Pitso Mosimane has praised Hugo Broos’ work with South Africa after being appointed the new Bafana Bafana head coach, choosing not to engage in a public dispute with his predecessor over claims of outside interference in team selection.

Mosimane was unveiled in his new role on Tuesday morning during a press briefing at SAFA House. His appointment comes after Broos recently warned that Bafana Bafana could “go five years back in time”, while alleging that club owners and agents had attempted to influence coaches over player selection.

Broos said: “club owners and agents are calling coaches to influence the selection. I threw them all out.”

However, Mosimane declined to respond directly to those comments or become involved in what could develop into a personal disagreement with the Belgian coach. Instead, he stressed that his priority would be the responsibilities that come with leading the national team.

“I will answer the questions related to my job, which is coaching,” he stated.

The new Bafana Bafana coach then used the opportunity to acknowledge the contribution made by Broos and others who worked with the national team before his return.

“I think way before I have recognised and praised Hugo Broos for what he’s done, I appreciate the work Broos has done and everyone else has done [before my return to Bafana Bafana coach.]”

Mosimane said Broos had left the national team in a strong position and had created a solid platform for the next coach to build on.

“He has laid very good foundations for us, he has done exceptionally well. I’m not saying it today only, I’ve said it before. He has put a good foundation for me.”

He repeated his appreciation for the work completed during Broos’ tenure, while also recognising the efforts of the coaches and staff who had been involved with Bafana Bafana before his appointment.

“I appreciate the work Broos has done and everyone else has done [before my return to Bafana Bafana coach.]”

Mosimane’s comments marked a measured response to Broos’ criticism. Rather than addressing the allegations about agents or club owners, he focused on the coaching role and the foundations he believes have been established for the national team.

The change in leadership was formally confirmed at Tuesday morning’s briefing at SAFA House, where Mosimane was presented as the new head coach of Bafana Bafana. His first public response to Broos’ remarks emphasised respect for the previous coach’s achievements and a desire to concentrate on his own work in charge of South Africa.