Mihlali Baleka asserts that while Pitso Mosimane's qualifications for the Bafana Bafana national team position are undeniable, the most sensible step would be to accept an offer from SAFA with conditions for future bonuses.
The author notes that Mosimane, a recognized and highly regarded coach on the continent, earned his reputation in club football through an impressive track record that many national teams would like to have in their head coach's staff.
Nevertheless, SAFA, his home association, offered him an annual salary of 10 million rand to lead the team after Hugo Broos' departure. This amount is considered insignificant considering that the previously departed Belgian coach earned 16.8 million rand annually.
However, if one examines the financial details closely, everyone will agree. What is being ignored is that Broos did not receive this high sum immediately after his appointment in May 2021, but earned it gradually. Over his five years with the association, he earned every penny by transforming South African football and ensuring the team's participation in major tournaments.
Mosimane, the 62-year-old specialist, is preparing for a second return to Bafana, aiming to overcome the failures of his first term when he was dismissed, and to prove that he is more than just a club coach. The author is convinced that Mosimane can achieve this and build upon the foundation laid by Broos, but the method of achievement may differ, so he might need time.
Mosimane highly values Broos' approach, which does not accept half-measures, and sees common values between them: protecting players and caring for them not only as coaches but also as mentors off the field. Nevertheless, Mosimane has long established himself as an independent person, preferring that the structure conform to his system, not the other way around, which may mean wanting to ensure that the players and SAFA know that he is in charge of the process.
For instance, Broos clearly defined limited space for the old guard, insisting that the future belongs to young players. Mosimane, however, has always believed that anyone good enough has the right to contribute to the team. Since coaches and players work for results, he cannot be blamed for such an opinion. This is why he has always insisted on being involved in the hiring process—he, not scouts, will be fired if he does not achieve results.
The same applies to his trusted assistants. Mosimane is deeply loyal to his staff because he believes they share his vision, including fitness trainer Kabelo Rangoaagu and analyst Musi Matlabu. Therefore, Mosimane and his agency MT Sports Marketing and Management's reluctance to sign documents with SAFA is due to his personnel not receiving what they consider fair—reportedly permanent contracts alongside the coach.
This is commendable from Mosimane's perspective, as it demonstrates his belief in the team that will help Bafana succeed—not only qualify for the 2027 Africa Cup in the Pamodja region but also compete for the title. However, since time is pressing for Mosimane and his team as continental tournament qualifiers begin in three weeks, these delays could hinder their preparation. A slow start could raise questions if they are paid on par with Broos from the beginning.
It is also reported that negotiations stalled after Mosimane refused to grant SAFA his image rights, including the rights to his podcast 'Changing the Game with Pitso Mosimane'. This is complicated given reports that he had negotiated with Bafana sponsors, Adidas and Standard Bank, regarding compensation for the use of his likeness or attributes.
Ultimately, it seems reasonable for Mosimane's camp to accept most current offers, but with the condition of reviewing the terms later based on results and performance. Such an approach may not guarantee immediate maximum financial gain, but it guarantees the future.