Image rights, popular podcast and more: Key issues stalling Mosimane’s Bafana return

A contract dispute between the South African Football Association (SAFA) and incoming Bafana Bafana coach Pitso Mosimane is threatening to derail his appointment, with disagreements over image rights, his popular podcast, and youth development projects emerging as major stumbling blocks.

While both parties have reportedly agreed on the financial terms of the deal, negotiations have stalled over several key non-financial clauses.

According to Sunday World, Mosimane is unwilling to sign until these issues are resolved, casting a shadow over his highly anticipated return to the national team.

Stumbling blocks for Mosimane revealed

The primary point of contention is the control of Mosimane’s personal image rights. Having established himself as one of Africa’s most successful and marketable coaches, Mosimane is determined to retain control over his personal brand for endorsements and sponsorships.

However, SAFA is insisting on acquiring these rights as part of his employment, a standard practice the association believes is necessary for its own marketing and sponsorship activities.

It is understood that the compensation offered by SAFA is not considered sufficient by Mosimane’s camp to justify relinquishing such a valuable commercial asset.

Further complicating the talks are SAFA’s demands regarding Mosimane’s other ventures. The association has reportedly requested that he cease his involvement with the Pitso Mosimane Soccer Schools and his youth football programme to avoid any potential conflict with SAFA’s own development structures.

Coaching delay leaves Bafana in uncertainty

Additionally, SAFA is said to want Mosimane to discontinue his recently launched podcast, “Changing the Game with Pitso,” and adhere strictly to the association’s official media protocols.

The impasse has left the national team in a state of uncertainty. SAFA president Danny Jordaan announced Mosimane’s return for a second spell two weeks ago, following his first tenure from 2010 to 2012. However, with the contract still unsigned, contingency plans are being considered.

Former Bafana Bafana and Kaizer Chiefs coach Molefi Ntseki has been mentioned as a possible caretaker for the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Guinea and Eritrea, should the deadlock with Mosimane persist.

Fans and analysts are watching closely, hoping for a swift resolution that will allow the team to focus on its on-field objectives.