The South African Football Association (SAFA) has announced a significant step up in the minimum qualifications for foreign coaches seeking to work in the Premier Soccer League (PSL) starting from August 2024.
This new policy aims to raise the standard of coaching in the PSL and prioritize the development of local coaches.
 The revised criteria includes:
UEFA Pro License or CAF A License: Previously, no specific license was required, but now foreign coaches must possess the highest coaching qualification in Europe or Africa.
Minimum 5 Years of Experience as a Professional Head Coach: This ensures foreign coaches have a proven track record of success in a similar professional environment.
Trophy Winner in the Last 7 Years: This requirement emphasizes the expectation of immediate impact and the ability to deliver results at the highest level.
SAFA Technical Director, Walter Steenbok explained the rationale behind the new policy: “We want to attract the best foreign coaches to the PSL, but we also want to ensure they are prepared to contribute to the development of South African football. By raising the minimum qualifications, we are sending a clear message that we are serious about improving the standard of coaching in our league.”
The new policy has met with mixed reactions. Some argue it will deter talented foreign coaches from coming to South Africa, while others believe it is necessary to protect and develop local coaches.
Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro and his TS Galaxy counterpart Sead Ramovic would not have met the new criteria before coming to South Africa but have done exceptionally well.
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RIVEIRO WON THREE TROPHIES
Riveiro has won three trophies so far yet he had never won any during his stint in Finland.
Ramovic, who is in the Carling Knockout final on Saturday, has immensely improved The Rockets.
A local club chairman said: “We understand there will be different opinions on this decision, but we believe it is in the best interests of the long-term health of the PSL. We are confident that this policy will attract high-caliber coaches who can contribute to the growth and success of our league.”
The implementation of the new minimum qualifications will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the landscape of coaching in the South African PSL. Whether it will lead to an influx of elite foreign coaches or further opportunities for local talent remains to be seen. One thing is certain: the bar for foreign coaches in South Africa has been raised, and only time will tell how the league and its stakeholders will adapt to the new challenge.