Pitso Mosimane Explains Why Bafana-Bafana Still Need Their Own Messi, Mbappe or Bellingham

Bafana Bafana coach Pitso Mosimane has explained why South Africa does not yet have a player like Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe or Jude Bellingham who can command a special place in the national team.

Mosimane has made it clear that no player is bigger than the team and that every footballer must work hard to earn the right to wear the Bafana Bafana jersey.

Speaking during the team’s preparations for their upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Kenya, the experienced coach said South Africa is not yet in a position where one player is so influential that the team must make special arrangements for them.

He used Messi as an example, explaining that the Argentine superstar has reached a level where his influence on a team is clear. However, Mosimane believes Bafana players must first prove themselves through their performances.

The coach also mentioned Mbappe and Bellingham, pointing out that these international stars regularly show their value when they are fit and ready to play.

Mosimane stressed that players returning from injuries or time away from the national team cannot simply expect to walk back into the starting line-up.

This comes as Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Thalente Mbatha and striker Lyle Foster return to the Bafana setup after missing the previous camp. Mosimane says their return does not mean other players who performed well in their absence should automatically lose their places.

He also highlighted the importance of club performances, saying players must show that they are still performing at a high level before receiving national team opportunities.

His comments send a clear message to the squad ahead of the Kenya matches: reputation alone will not win anyone a place.

For Mosimane, the competition for places is important because it encourages players to improve and gives everyone a fair opportunity to represent the country.

https://www.soccerladuma.co.za/psl/bafana/pitso-mosimane-explains-why-bafana-bafana-don-t-have-a-lionel-messi-mbappe-or-bellingham-yet