Former Orlando Pirates captain and Bafana Bafana midfielder Benson Mhlongo has revealed that he is seriously considering a career in coaching. The ex-midfielder, who earned respect for his leadership on and off the field during his playing days, is now looking towards the next chapter of his football journey.
Mhlongo, who enjoyed a successful career with Orlando Pirates, having captained the club during a golden era, expressed his desire to give back to the game and help develop the next generation of players. Speaking in an interview, Mhlongo acknowledged the transition from player to coach can be challenging but is one he is eager to embrace.
“I’ve always been passionate about the game, even after my playing days,” Mhlongo said. “Coaching is something that has been on my mind for a while now. I want to use my experience and knowledge of the game to help young players grow and develop. I feel that I still have a lot to offer to the football community.”
During his time as a player, Mhlongo was known for his composure, tactical awareness, and ability to dictate play in the middle of the park. These qualities have shaped his coaching philosophy, with Mhlongo keen on imparting his understanding of the game to others. He also highlighted the importance of mental strength and leadership, qualities that he believes are essential for any successful coach.
“I think the key to being a good coach is not only understanding the technical aspects of the game but also being able to communicate and inspire your players,” Mhlongo explained. “A coach needs to be a leader, someone who can motivate players and guide them both on and off the pitch. It’s about building a winning mentality and instilling the right values in the team.”
Although Mhlongo has not yet taken up any coaching role, he has been involved in football development activities, and his involvement with youth teams has given him a taste of what coaching entails. He has worked closely with aspiring young talents, helping them with their skills and mindset. “Coaching youth teams has been a fantastic learning experience for me. I’ve been able to help players refine their skills, but also teach them the importance of discipline and hard work,” he said.
The former midfielder, who also had stints with the national team, is now focused on obtaining his coaching qualifications to further his ambition. “It’s important to continue learning and improving. I want to earn my coaching badges so that I can be fully prepared when the time comes for me to step into a professional coaching role.”
While Mhlongo’s future in coaching remains uncertain, his passion for the game and his drive to develop football in South Africa is evident. The football community will undoubtedly be excited to see what the former Orlando Pirates captain has to offer in the coaching world, as he aims to make a significant impact off the field, just as he did during his playing career.
