Legendary midfielder Bernard Parker has not yet decided whether he will continue playing in the South African top flight or not.
The former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder has been active for the last two decades, playing for the likes of Red Star Belgrade, FC Twente, Panserraikos, and is currently with TS Galaxy.
In October 2023, the 38-year-old suffered a double fracture after a reckless challenge by Mamelodi Sundowns' Bongani Zungu in a Carling Knockout game which the Rockets eventually won through the shootout.
A few expected Parker to continue playing after the incident, but he defied the odds to make a return in April 2024.
Is coaching next for the legendary midfielder? ‘I just need to sit down & make the best decision'
Galaxy chairman Tim Sukazi has already asked Parker and Vuyo Mere to consider joining the team's technical team. However, it seems the midfielder wants to continue playing for a couple of seasons before taking another role in the game.
“There have been talks, there has been interest [from other Premier Soccer League teams], but it’s just for me to make sure I make that right decision for my family,” the former South Africa international opened up.
“I made sure that I equip myself as much as I can – overall, I have sports management, sports marketing, sports nutrition, personal training, exercise science qualifications, life coaching, sports psychology, it can go on and on. I have my Caf C coaching badges, I just make sure I try to accumulate knowledge myself as much as I can.
“Last year I was in the same position as I am now, also speculation, lots of talk and I went on for another year, so I find myself in the same situation,” Parker, whose contract with Galaxy expires on June 30, continued.
“I’m thankful that the chairman really appreciates us and it’s a great opportunity. I just need to sit down with my family and make sure I make the best decision.”
Why Caf C?
Parker had initially hoped to secure a Caf B license but he had not qualified for the same, “I do want to equip myself more, I missed out on the [Caf B license] that took place because it was only for coaches who are currently coaching,” he revealed to the media.
“When the next B License course comes up, I will take it in that direction, for now, and we’ll see as time goes on. I don’t want to take on too many things, I don’t want to get too busy, and family is my number one priority.”
Parker joined TS Galaxy from Amakhosi in 2022 and has since played 36 games across all competitions, scoring three goals and providing four assists in the process.
