Bafana Bafana legend Doctor Khumalo says his appointment as the vice chairperson of the Safa technical committee is not about him, but has the sole purpose of contributing to the development of South African football.
Khumalo’s appointment was announced by Safa president Danny Jordaan after the induction of their new National Executive Committee (NEC) members, along with the election of the new vice-presidents: Linda Zwane, Natasha Tsiclas, and Tankiso Modipa, who is new to the role.
Khumalo is set to work with chairperson Jack Maluleke, one of the longest-serving members of the NEC. The responsibilities of the two men include the appointment of all national team coaches, the implementation of training methodologies, and the review of the teams' performances across the board.
Khumalo’s role includes being the superior of technical director Molefi Ntseki, who is the direct line manager of coaches, including Bafana Bafana tactician Pitso Mosimane, who recently joined the team.
Speaking on Game On with Thabiso Mosia on Radio 2000 on Monday night, a day after his appointment, Khumalo revealed how he received the news and what he makes of it.
“I must say, it (the appointment) came as a surprise,” said Khumalo, before thanking everyone who made the appointment possible, including the NEC, Jordaan, PSL bosses Irvin Khoza and Kaizer Motaung, his family, and everyone who has supported his journey, particularly the fans of SA football.
“This journey is not about me, but the demands of the game. It’s about what South Africans want. It’s not about individuals or the association, but the future of SA football.”
Admired and respected across the country, continent, and globe for his outstanding football talent back in the day, Khumalo backed that up by acquiring coaching credentials, including the UEFA B License.
Over the years, he has gathered football experience off the pitch, serving as an assistant coach at his childhood club, Kaizer Chiefs, and as a technical director at Baroka. He also works as an analyst on SABC Sport.
“I would like to believe that it will be done collectively,” Khumalo said of the work that lies ahead. “It’s not Doc Khumalo’s decision. Collectively, we can pull it off. I mean that this is about the country, Mzansi.
“Yes, of course, I did some coaching courses here in the country and outside. I do have the capabilities to deliver on the needs. Yes, of course, it’s the association that has given me the platform, but it’s the demands of the game that will determine the way forward.
Khumalo revealed that he was yet to meet the top bosses at Safa to discuss the group’s and his targets. However, he knows that all structures deserve focus.
“I have been shadowing this national team and other national teams that we have – the development structures and Banyana Banyana,” Khumalo said. “I must credit Safa because if we look at our development structures, we have excelled beyond our limits. But we need to maintain and nurture the talent
“We need something on hand that will address those programs. I am not sure what’s currently on the table. I haven’t been to the office. I haven’t been given a mandate, but I can only speak from a prospective viewpoint.”
With his appointment, Khumalo hopes more coaches and former players are extended a similar courtesy so that they can also contribute to South African football.
“It would certainly be appreciated if we bring in former players,” Khumalo said. “We shouldn’t forget the coaches who have contributed to SA football. They should be given a platform to share their views. Like I said, it’s a collective effort.”