Mamelodi Sundowns coach Manqoba Mngqithi has sent a stern warning to Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos following his comments where he raised concern for midfielder Teboho Mokoena’s lack of game time at Sundowns.
Mokoena has been missing in action since September 1st, having not played in six consecutive matches under Mngqithi’s leadership.
Mngqithi has explained that Mokoena’s absence, as well as the absence of other key players, is related to “periodization” – a strategic training approach that manages players’ physical and mental load throughout a busy season.
Given that Sundowns are juggling multiple competitions this season, the coach emphasized the importance of carefully managing player workloads to avoid injuries and burnout.
However, Broos expressed disappointment and concern over Mokoena’s lack of game time, especially given his pivotal role in the Bafana Bafana squad.
The 27-year-old is one of the most influential midfielders for both his club and the national team, making Broos’ remarks a sign of his frustration at not having the player fully match-fit for international duty.
“Broos is just talking, he must manage his house and allow me to manage my house,” Mngqithi said.
“Because nobody tells him who to play in his team (Bafana Bafana) and I cannot be expected to be told by another coach who to play in my team.
“The truth is we all know the quality of the players and they are going to help us. We don’t have any problem with them we have resolved whatever minor issues we may have had.
“But each man for his own family. We must take care of our spaces nobody says anything when he (Broos) plays eight defenders we keep quiet.
“Because it’s his choice and I respect him. I respect him as a coach he has done very well for the country everybody is excited.
“He got a bronze medal (at Afcon) but he must understand that we have the responsibility to manage our squads, just like he is managing his own squad.
“So, I don’t have much to say in that space the best thing that could ever happen is for him to call me for us to have a call to talk about our situations because I never say why he select this player, and instead of that player.
“And I don’t expect another coach to do that maybe administrators have a bit of a right to say that but with the respect that I have for him.
“I’m sure he will give me a call and discuss this thing as coaches no one is bigger than anyone else we are both coaches.”
Written by Ayanda Vezi