Hugo Broos warns Bafana could 'go back five years' under Pitso Mosimane

Broos made the comments in an interview with Belgian newspaper Nieuwsblad, despite Mosimane's appointment being approved by SAFA's National Executive Committee. The former Mamelodi Sundowns and Al Ahly coach is yet to sign his contract, with negotiations continuing over issues including image rights.

"You know, South Africa still doesn't have a manager. The candidate is Pitso Mosimane, a successful South African coach. However, they know that if he comes, they will go back five years in time," Broos said.

The Belgian claimed he rejected attempts by club owners and agents to influence his squad selections.

"Club owners and agents calling managers to influence the squad. I kicked them all out. If one called, I said bluntly: 'I don't talk with agents'," he added.

Mosimane previously coached Bafana between 2010 and 2012 and would return with a stronger reputation, having won the CAF Champions League three times and led Sundowns to their first continental title.

Broos departed after guiding Bafana to the 2026 Fifa World Cup and their first progression to the knockout stages, following a third-place finish at the Africa Cup of Nations.

Despite his criticism, Broos spoke warmly about the support he received from South Africans.

"I've had to swallow hard a few times these last few weeks. I've never experienced that gratitude there," he said.

The 74-year-old also revealed he briefly considered extending his stay after initially deciding to retire following the World Cup, but ultimately rejected the idea.

"I changed my mind at least 10 times. Until I told myself: 'It's terrible for those people, but it has to end at some point,'" Broos said.

Broos insists his coaching career is over, although he admitted retirement could eventually prove difficult after five years in international football.

Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie has also weighed in, calling for Mosimane to receive the same starting salary as Broos.

"Pitso Mosimane should be paid. The least they could do is start him with the same salary they started with Hugo Broos," McKenzie said.

With South Africa preparing for their 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign, pressure is mounting on SAFA to resolve the contractual issues and formally confirm Mosimane's appointment.