Pitso Mosimane releases game-changing manual as he eyes Bafana job

Renowned coach Pitso Mosimane has officially launched “The Youth Football Coaching Manual,” a significant publication designed to redirect the national focus from professional football back to the sport’s fundamental grassroots level.

The launch event, held in Sandton on Thursday, attracted a host of prominent figures. Attendees included Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, SAFA president Danny Jordaan, Gauteng Education MEC Lebogang Maile, Young Africans chairman Hersi Said and Botswana FA President Tariq Babitseng.

Drawing from over two decades of coaching experience in Africa and abroad, the manual offers a practical framework for player development. It is built on established coaching principles and internationally recognised models, emphasising a long-term approach.

What is in Pitso Mosimane’s manual?

The guide urges coaches to prioritise age-appropriate, sustained development over the pursuit of immediate results. It also calls for parents to become active partners in their children’s football careers and for a collaborative effort between communities, federations, government, and the private sector to foster holistic player growth—technically, physically, mentally and socially.

“South African football doesn’t have a talent problem. It has a development challenge,” Mosimane stated. “We have gifted young players in every community across this country. The question is whether we are providing them with the coach, support and environment they need to fulfil their potential.”

The publication advocates for greater cooperation among all stakeholders, including coaches, parents, schools, clubs and government, to fortify the foundations of the game.

Veteran coach hopes manual is game-changer

“Creating the player of tomorrow is not the responsibility of coaches alone,” Mosimane added. “If we want a stronger future for South African football, we must invest in the people and environments that shape young players from the very beginning.”

More than just a coaching resource, the manual aims to ignite a national dialogue on youth football development and encourage long-term investment in the systems that cultivate future talent.

This launch signifies the start of a wider football development initiative that will include coach education, community engagement, and other programs aimed at building a more sustainable football ecosystem in South Africa and across the continent.