A former Esteghal star has come out with sharp criticism aimed at Pitso Mosimane, questioning his decision to take a “vacation” in South Africa while also implementing closed training sessions at his current club. The outspoken former player, who had a distinguished career with the Iranian side Esteghal, expressed his concerns about the impact of Mosimane’s actions on both the team and the fans.
Pitso Mosimane, the celebrated South African coach, is no stranger to making headlines for his bold decisions and leadership style, but this latest controversy has left many questioning his approach. Reports emerged that Mosimane had taken time off to return to South Africa, despite his ongoing responsibilities with his current team. The timing of the “vacation” has raised eyebrows, particularly because it comes in the midst of a crucial period for the club, with important matches on the horizon.
The former Esteghal star was quick to point out that Mosimane’s absence could potentially undermine the team’s morale and preparation. The player suggested that Mosimane should have remained with the team, especially given the high stakes involved in their upcoming fixtures. “As a coach, you need to be present with your team,” the former Esteghal star said. “Taking a vacation when your team needs guidance is not a good look. It’s important for a manager to lead by example, especially during critical moments in the season.”
The criticism didn’t stop there. The former player also voiced concerns over Mosimane’s decision to close training sessions to the public and the media. While many coaches prefer private sessions to avoid unnecessary distractions, the move has been met with resistance by some, who argue that it creates an air of secrecy and limits transparency. Fans, in particular, feel excluded and frustrated by the lack of access to the team’s preparations, which is often seen as a way to build excitement and loyalty among supporters.
“Football is about the fans,” the ex-Esteghal star continued. “They deserve to see their team and understand what’s happening behind the scenes. When you close training sessions, you create a barrier between the team and the supporters. It’s not ideal for team morale or fan engagement.”
Pitso Mosimane, who has enjoyed significant success in both South African and continental football, has been hailed for his tactical acumen and leadership. However, his decision to take time off during such a crucial period for his team is not the first time his judgment has come under scrutiny. Some critics have suggested that Mosimane’s approach may not always be in line with the demands of the modern game, where managers are expected to be more hands-on and available at all times.
Despite the criticism, Mosimane has built a reputation as a manager who is not afraid to make bold decisions—whether it’s rotating players, changing tactical setups, or taking time away from the team. His success in leading Al Ahly to numerous victories and his tenure at Mamelodi Sundowns have earned him a loyal following, and many of his supporters believe he deserves the benefit of the doubt.
However, critics argue that his decision to step away at a crucial time could raise doubts about his commitment to the job. They believe that football clubs require managers who are deeply involved in every aspect of the team’s performance, especially during moments of uncertainty or when the team is facing pressure.
At the heart of the criticism lies a broader issue concerning the relationship between coaches and fans, as well as the expectations of modern football. The transparency between a club and its supporters has never been more important, and closed-door training sessions may leave fans feeling disconnected, as they are unable to witness the progress their team is making.
In a time when fan engagement is considered essential for the success of a club, it’s understandable why some would view Mosimane’s actions as a mistake. Fans often want to feel involved in the journey of their team, and being kept in the dark can lead to frustrations. While closed training sessions can offer tactical advantages and keep opposing teams from gaining insight into the team’s strategies, the perception of secrecy can also breed discontent among supporters who feel left out.
As the club moves forward, it remains to be seen how this criticism will affect Mosimane’s relationship with the players, staff, and fans. His decisions have always been polarizing, but his track record as a coach suggests that he knows what it takes to guide a team to success, even in challenging times. That said, how he handles this latest controversy—particularly with his team’s performance in the coming weeks—could shape his legacy at his current club.
For now, it’s clear that Pitso Mosimane’s “vacation” and the decision to close training sessions have sparked debate, with opinions divided on whether these actions were justified or detrimental to the club’s goals.
