Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has recalled Jayden Adams to the national squad ahead of upcoming friendlies against Panama, signalling a remarkable turnaround for the 24-year-old midfielder, a year after his controversial exclusion.
Adams’ alleged lack of discipline and inconsistent performances at Mamelodi Sundowns resulted in his exclusion from Bafana and limited game time.
The decision also saw him miss out on the Africa Cup of Nations, where South Africa were eliminated in the Round of 16. Since then, the former Stellenbosch FC standout has worked hard to restore his reputation, delivering consistent displays, including a Man of the Match performance in Sundowns’ 3–1 win over Sekhukhune United.
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Broos has spoken openly about Adams’ struggles, admitting the player “lost himself” after joining Sundowns. He explained that Adams may have believed he had already made it, which led to a dip in form and reduced game time, eventually finding himself out of the matchday squad altogether.
The Belgian mentor also expressed past dissatisfaction with Adams’ attitude during his earlier stint with the national team, but believes the midfielder has learned valuable lessons from the experience.
According to Broos, Adams has shown significant growth over the past year, demonstrating improved maturity and a strong desire to revive his career. He believes the midfielder’s renewed mindset, combined with his natural ability, could make him an important contributor to the national team moving forward.
“Jayden is a little bit the same story as Relebohile Mofokeng and Mbokazi,” Broos told the media.
“Suddenly, you become a good player and star, and there is a lot of interest in you; it is difficult to manage. The moment he went to Sundowns, he thought everything is done, and at some stage he lost himself.
“He was not playing; he was on the bench and even in the stands. He did what he did with the national team [when Adams was expelled from a Bafana camp for disciplinary reasons in October 2024], and I was not happy with that. But you learn a lot, and now he is more mature, and the qualities are still there.
“He has matured a lot over the last year because he looked in the mirror. I am happy with him because he is a quality player.”
Bafana Bafana will face Panama in two upcoming friendlies, first on Friday, 27 March at Moses Mabhida Stadium at 19:00, and again on Tuesday, 31 March at Cape Town Stadium at 19:30.