South Africa head coach, Hugo Broos, has confirmed he will step down from his role, ending weeks of speculation over his future following the country’s historic run to the knockout stage of the World Cup.
The 74-year-old had indicated before the tournament that he planned to retire from coaching.
However, after South Africa’s last-32 defeat to co-hosts Canada on June 28, he admitted he was reconsidering his decision and could remain in charge.
Speaking in an interview with Belgian outlet voetbalnieuws.be, Broos has now ruled out continuing as head coach, although he revealed he is open to serving South African football in an advisory or scouting capacity.
“Will I continue as a coach after all? No, it is irreversible! If they need me for something else, perhaps in scouting: that is something else. But football is no longer going to be a part of my life 24 hours a day,” Broos told voetbalnieuws.be.
Broos disclosed that he has already held discussions with the president of the South African Football Association, who is interested in retaining his services in a different role.
“I have already had a conversation with the chairman of the South African Football Association. He would like to keep me, but in a different role, as an advisor or something like that. I will return at the end of July to say a final farewell. I am curious to see what he will propose to me.”
The Belgian leaves after five years in charge, during which he became South Africa’s longest-serving national team coach and guided the side to its first FIFA World Cup appearance in 16 years.
Broos also joked about life after coaching, saying his wife was pleased with his decision to retire but had one condition.
“My wife is happy that I’m quitting, but she’s already warned me: ‘Just make sure you don’t get in my way!’
“Suppose I have to be in South Africa for a few weeks every two months: why not? Better that than being a nuisance at home because I have nothing to do,” Broos added.
