Shandre Campbell Reveals What Pitso Mosimane Told Him After Bafana Bafana Call-Up

South African football youngster Shandre Campbell has opened up about an important conversation with Bafana Bafana head coach Pitso Mosimane after being asked to join the national under-23 team despite recently making his breakthrough into the senior national setup.

The KV Kortrijk winger has made it clear that he has no problem returning to the U23 side, insisting that representing South Africa and helping the country achieve its football ambitions will always come before personal recognition.

Campbell recently attracted attention after earning an opportunity with Bafana Bafana under Mosimane. His involvement with the senior national team marked another important milestone in his developing career, particularly after moving to Belgian football.

However, following his involvement at senior international level, the young winger was asked to return to the U23 squad to provide experience and leadership as South Africa prepares for its upcoming Olympic Games qualifying matches against Madagascar.

Speaking about the decision, Campbell revealed that Mosimane personally contacted him and explained what he expected from him.

“Coach Pitso called me and he told me he believed in me. He said he wanted me to go down to the U23 and be a senior player and help them out as much as I can. And I said, of course, coach, I will do anything for the nation,” Campbell explained.

His response reflects his willingness to contribute wherever the national team needs him, regardless of whether he is playing for the senior side or the under-23 team.

Campbell also explained that returning to the U23 setup would not be an unfamiliar experience because he already knows most of the players and members of the technical team.

According to the winger, the U23 team has been part of his journey since the COSAFA competitions. He also expressed appreciation for the confidence shown in him by Mosimane and U23 coach Raymond Mdaka.

The youngster believes that trust is an important part of football and is grateful that both coaches have confidence in his abilities.

South Africa will need Campbell’s experience as the U23 team prepares for its two qualifying encounters against Madagascar at Lucas Moripe Stadium. The matches form part of the country’s campaign towards the 2028 Olympic Games.

His experience with Bafana Bafana could prove valuable, particularly when it comes to guiding younger teammates through the pressure of international football.

Meanwhile, Campbell continues his development in Belgium, where he recently joined KV Kortrijk after leaving Club Brugge in search of more regular playing opportunities.

For South African football supporters, his willingness to accept the U23 assignment sends a positive message about commitment, teamwork and national pride.

Rather than viewing the move as a setback after reaching the senior national team, Campbell sees it as another opportunity to serve his country and contribute to South Africa’s football ambitions.

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