Helman Mkhalele breaks silence on Bafana job after Hugo Broos’ backing

Bafana Bafana assistant coach Helman Mkhalele has spoken about his coaching ambitions following his endorsement by his boss Hugo Broos.

Broos has already given his blessings to Mkhalele to replace him when he leaves the Bafana Bafana hot seat after the 2026 World Cup as he believes the former South Africa international is capable of continuing the good work that he has done so far.

Mkhalele has been Broos’ no.2 since the veteran Belgian tactician became Bafana coach in May 2021, learning a lot from the 73-year-old and also being given the freedom to make certain key decisions.

So impressed is Broos in Mkhalele that he believes he is the best possible man to maintain the standards when he finally calls time on his coaching career next year.

Mkhalele humbled by Broos’ backing

“I am humbled by the coach’s sentiments,” Mkhalele said on SABC regarding the endorsement from Broos. “I am really humbled but also, as a human being, besides being a coach, respecting the principles of working and respecting who he is and who I am.”

“The respect we have in each other and the guidance and allowing me to be myself in making a suggestion in everything and also participating fully in the training sessions, decision making, it has helped me to grow,” added the 56-year-old.

Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos recently endorsed his assistant Helman Mkhalele as his successor when he leaves the team after next year’s FIFA World Cup. The 1996 AFCON winner has responded…

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Regarding his chances of becoming Bafana Bafana coach, Mkhalele remained cagey but admitted his burning ambitions to become a head coach in the near future.

Does Bafana assistant desire to be No.1?

“Yes, I do aspire to be the coach, not specifically of Bafana Bafana, but to be the head coach one day, but with this experience and knowledge I have gained through him has made me a better person and helped me be a better coach,” he further said.

The former Orlando Pirates and Jomo Cosmos midfielder has already taken steps in readiness for the Bafana Bafana job after signing up for a CAF A License coaching course in Lesotho through the Lesotho Football Association (LeFA).

Mkhalele is a CAF B License holder but he would need an A License if he has to take over a national team or a club playing in the CAF Champions League or Confederation Cup.