Olwethu Makhanya: I felt overlooked by Hugo Broos

Rangers defender Olwethu Makhanya says he felt overlooked by former South Africa coach Hugo Broos before the recent change in the Bafana Bafana technical team.

Makhanya has enjoyed a strong start to life in Scotland following his move from Major League Soccer side Philadelphia Union to Rangers.

The 22-year-old centre-back has quickly established himself in the Rangers starting XI and attracted widespread attention after an impressive display in the Old Firm derby against Celtic last weekend.

His form has also earned him a place in new Bafana coach Pitso Mosimane’s 35-man provisional squad.

Makhanya has won one senior international cap, making his debut in a friendly against Nicaragua in May 2026.

He was subsequently included in South Africa’s squad for the 2026 Fifa World Cup but did not feature during the tournament.

The defender believes the arrival of Mosimane has given him an opportunity to establish himself in the national team after struggling to gain recognition under Broos.

“I saw the coaching change as an opportunity for a fresh start in the national team because I always felt like I was overlooked by the previous coach,” Makhanya told SABC Sport.

Makhanya also defended the standard of Major League Soccer after facing criticism during his time in the United States.

“I never understood the criticism because all these people probably never actually watched the MLS,” he said.

“People that really watch that league will tell you that it’s high-level football.”

Makhanya believes the Scottish Premiership currently sits above MLS and the South African top flight in terms of overall quality.

“Honestly, if I were to rank them, I’ll put the Scottish Premiership first, second is the MLS, and the Betway Premiership is third,” he added.