Broos turns down South Africa offer, SAFA faces coach search

In the quiet of a Johannesburg office, Hugo Broos signed the paperwork that ends his five‑year spell, turning down South Africa’s offer to remain head coach as the federation prepares to announce his departure on Friday after guiding Bafana Bafana to historic achievements.

The briefing scheduled for Friday will confirm that Broos will leave at the end of his contract, despite SAFA’s wish that he stay in charge until the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. Reports say the offer arrived too late for the 74‑year‑old to accept.

Broos guided South Africa to a bronze medal at the 2023 African Cup of Nations, delivering the nation’s first podium finish in the tournament’s recent history. The achievement added a new chapter to his legacy with the Bafana side.

He also led Bafana Bafana back to the FIFA World Cup, where the team reached the knockout stages for the first time. That World Cup run marked a milestone for South African football under his tenure.

The Belgian has indicated he is ready to retire from full‑time coaching, stating he does not want to “die on the bench” after nearly 40 years in management. Also, he emphasized his desire to step away while still able to enjoy the game.

Broos said he wants to spend more time with his family, but he has left the door open for an advisory or scouting role within South African football. Read the federation’s official statement for further details on his future involvement.

The upcoming announcement will also outline SAFA’s plan to appoint a new head coach ahead of the 2027 AFCON qualifiers, following the expiry of Broos’s five‑year contract. The search for a successor begins as the nation looks to build on recent successes.