Broos reveals lonely nights away from home was the only reason he decided to leave Bafana Bafana

Speaking to the media at the SAFA House today, Broos, who leaves South Africa as Bafana’s longest-serving coach after having finished his five-year contract, officially confirmed his departure. 

He confirmed that he has decided against renewing his contract, and says the past few days were very sad for him...

"The last few days were very sad for me because the lonely moments and the long periods I was away from my family became very difficult for me, and that is the only reason why I'm leaving. 

"I leave behind fantastic people who I worked with over the last five years, and I received a lot of praise and gratitude from the South African public every time I left my apartment. For that I will always be grateful."

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It was an emotional goodbye to South Africans for the 74-year-old coach, as he reflected on his time in SA, a stay he has enjoyed, taking the team to two AFCONS, returning with a bronze medal at one tournament, and also helped secure the country’s best finish at the World Cup, reaching the knockout phase for the first time.

During his time as the Bafana Bafana coach, Broos has also created a strong bond with his technical team consisting of his assistant Helman Mkhalele, strength and conditioning coach Kopano Melesi, and goalkeeper coach Grant Johnson, team doctor Dr Tshepo Molobi, his analyst Sinesipho Mali, and team manager Vincent Tseka. 

After two AFCONS and a World Cup, the Belgian-born coach says he’s leaving friends who turned out to be like family to him...

"For me, on the one side I'm very proud and happy for the achievements of my team and the technical team. On the other side, I feel sad to leave this team because I made friends for life, those guys became like family to me which is what made my experience in South Africa truly amazing."

Looking back at what has made Broos succeed as Bafana coach, he says having a clear plan and sticking to it and not listening to everyone was key in not just finishing the five years but leaving behind a strong legacy...