Pitso Mosimane, Benni McCarthy Emerge as Leading Hugo Broos Successors as Rulani Mokwena Faces Doubts

As Hugo Broos's tenure with Bafana Bafana approaches its final chapter, the conversation around his successor is intensifying.

With the Belgian coach expected to retire after the 2026 World Cup, prominent names like Pitso Mosimane, Benni McCarthy, and Rulani Mokwena are being touted as potential replacements.

Hugo Broos's future has been a subject of speculation, particularly after South Africa's exit in the Round of 16 at the Africa Cup of Nations.

While some predicted an early departure, Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie has publicly backed the coach, suggesting he will see out his contract. Nevertheless, the South African Football Association (SAFA) is under pressure to plan for the post-Broos era.

Former Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Brighton Mhlongo has weighed in on the debate, identifying two clear candidates to take the helm.

"I have two coaches in mind," Mhlongo told Soccer Beat. "One would be the obvious: Pitso Mosimane. He’s been there, he’s done it, and he understands the dynamics. He works well with players."

Mhlongo's second choice is Manchester United first-team coach Benni McCarthy, citing his international experience and ability to work under pressure.

"He’s shown that he can work under tough conditions and give youngsters opportunities to play," Mhlongo explained. "He also has a big profile, and right now, after Broos, you need someone with a strong profile."

Mhlongo also suggested that the current assistant, Helman Mkhalele, should remain in his role to continue his development. "Being an assistant and being the main man are two very different things," he noted.

Despite his remarkable success with Mamelodi Sundowns, Rulani Mokwena is not yet ready for the national team, according to Mhlongo. He believes the young tactician needs more experience with adversity before taking on such a high-pressure role.

"As for Rulani, not yet. I don’t want him coaching the national team at this stage," Mhlongo stated, drawing a parallel with Julian Nagelsmann's early challenges with the German national team.

"He had huge potential at club level and was still young, with room to grow, to experience defeat, cup losses, and heartbreak."

"When I talk about heartbreak, someone like Pitso knows what that is: injuries, losing trophies, losing continental finals. He’s walked that path. For Rulani, he hasn’t experienced enough of that yet."