Makhanya sees Mosimane appointment as chance to revive Bafana Bafana career

Rangers FC defender Olwethu Makhanya says the appointment of Pitso Mosimane as Bafana Bafana coach gives him the opportunity to make a fresh start with the national team after feeling overlooked by Hugo Broos.

The 22-year-old completed his move to Europe after reportedly joining Scottish Premiership side Rangers from MLS club Philadelphia Union for R87-million. He has made an encouraging start since arriving in Scotland.

Broos had been a vocal critic of the MLS but selected Makhanya for his FIFA World Cup squad in June. However, the centre-back did not play during the tournament.

Makhanya is now hoping Mosimane will give him a greater opportunity to establish himself internationally.

“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,” he said.

The former Stellenbosch FC player pushed for a move to Rangers after Philadelphia Union were reluctant to sell him. He believes playing in Europe could improve his chances of earning further international recognition.

Makhanya also questioned the criticism directed at the MLS, saying those opinions often came from people who had not watched the competition closely.

“I never understood the criticism because all these people probably never actually watched the MLS. People that really watch that league will tell you that it’s high level football,” he said.

The defender compared the quality of the Scottish Premiership, the MLS and South Africa’s Betway Premiership.

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