Hugo Broos backs Helman Mkhalele as his ideal successor

Speaking during a media roundtable with sports editors and senior journalists at SAFA House on Thursday morning, Broos said appointing Mkhalele would ensure continuity, given the solid working relationship they’ve built over the past four years.

Since Broos arrived in 2021, the pair have formed a strong partnership that has delivered an AFCON bronze medal and secured World Cup qualification.

"If Helman takes over from me, he can continue our work and continue the philosophy of this team with a little bit more of an African feel, because I'm a European.

"95% of the things that Helman thinks about or suggests are the same ideas that I think about. That's why I'm so happy with him and our work together."

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However, Broos pointed out that Mkhalele’s lack of a required coaching licence to lead a senior men’s national team could present a major obstacle to his potential appointment.

"The only problem with Helman is that he doesn't have the qualifications. He can avoid that if he follows the necessary courses.

"I need to move on because of my age. If I were ten years younger, you can be sure that I would've stayed with Bafana."

Broos’ five-year contract with Bafana Bafana will expire at the end of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.