Gustavo Poyet linked with Bafana Bafana job despite Pitso Mosimane’s approval

Pitso Mosimane’s expected return as South Africa head coach has been thrown into fresh uncertainty after reports in France linked Uruguayan-Spanish coach Gustavo Poyet with the Bafana Bafana job.

The South African Football Association (SAFA) had previously indicated that Mosimane was on course to return to the national team, with only the finalisation of a number of “loose ends” understood to be outstanding.

Earlier reports suggested Mosimane had initially turned down an offer believed to be worth about R5m (£1) a year.

However, it was later reported that an improved package of approximately R10m a year had been agreed, with an official announcement expected.

The situation has now taken another turn, with French publication Onze Mondial reporting that SAFA have made inquiries about Poyet.

The 58-year-old has a wealth of coaching experience, having worked in Europe, Asia, South America and the Middle East.

Poyet’s international experience is more limited, however, with his only previous national team appointment coming with Greece, whom he managed from February 2022 until March 2024.

He holds a UEFA Pro Licence, the highest coaching qualification available in European football.

Mosimane, meanwhile, holds a CAF Pro Licence and has considerably more experience at international level.

The 61-year-old previously managed Bafana Bafana between 2010 and 2012 after serving as an assistant and caretaker coach before being appointed permanently following the 2010 World Cup.

Mosimane has also enjoyed an extensive and successful club career, particularly with Mamelodi Sundowns and Egyptian giants Al Ahly.

He guided Sundowns to the CAF Champions League title in 2016 and later led Al Ahly to continental glory, becoming one of the most decorated African coaches of his generation.

His record includes three CAF Champions League triumphs.

The latest reports about Poyet therefore raise fresh questions over SAFA’s plans for the national team, despite earlier indications that Mosimane’s return had already received approval from the association’s National Executive Committee.

For now, the Bafana Bafana coaching situation remains unresolved, with the reported interest in Poyet adding another twist to the saga surrounding Mosimane’s proposed return.