As Africa counts down to another Africa Cup of Nations, a familiar frustration has resurfaced. This time, it comes straight from inside the Bafana Bafana camp.
Assistant coach Helman Mkhalele has publicly questioned FIFA’s decision to allow clubs to hold on to players until just six days before the start of AFCON. The tournament kicks off in Morocco later this month and runs through to mid-January, a window traditionally protected for national teams.
For decades, players were released at least 14 days before major international tournaments. That buffer allowed coaches to build fitness, chemistry and tactical clarity. Cutting that window in half, Mkhalele argues, places African teams at a serious disadvantage before a ball is even kicked.
Read more: FIFA’s Surprise AFCON Ruling Throws African Teams Into Chaos
“You Start To Feel Less Important”
Mkhalele did not mince his words when addressing the ruling. He described the move as unfair and deeply concerning, saying it raises uncomfortable questions about how African football is viewed at global level.
From a local perspective, his comments echo a long-standing sentiment across the continent. AFCON has often had to bend around European club schedules, domestic leagues and global tournaments, rather than being treated as a priority event in its own right.
With many African teams planning international friendlies from mid-December, the reduced release period disrupts months of preparation. Coaches now face the challenge of assembling squads, testing combinations and managing workloads with minimal time together.
Why Timing Matters More Than Ever
The issue is not just AFCON. Mkhalele pointed out that the congestion becomes even more problematic with the expanded FIFA World Cup format, which now includes 48 teams and demanding travel across varying altitudes.
For African nations, preparation windows are already tight. Playing AFCON close to World Cup qualifiers or finals compounds the pressure, especially when player release rules shift in favour of clubs.
Bafana Bafana Less Affected, But The Problem Remains
South Africa may escape the worst of the disruption. With many Bafana players based in the local league, the late release rule will not hit as hard as it will for squads heavily reliant on Europe-based stars.
There is also room for negotiation between clubs and national associations, and some countries have already secured early releases. But for Mkhalele, the bigger issue is principle, not paperwork.
A Coach With One Eye On The Future
Beyond the AFCON debate, Mkhalele also responded humbly to Hugo Broos publicly backing him as a potential successor. A member of South Africa’s iconic 1996 AFCON-winning squad, Mkhalele says he is focused on learning, contributing and growing under Broos’ guidance.
He admits to aspiring to become a head coach one day, whether at Bafana or elsewhere, and credits the current environment for shaping his journey.
As AFCON approaches, his message is clear. African football deserves respect, proper preparation and a seat at the table when global decisions are made.
Read more: Ronwen Williams Embraces Mexico Rematch As Bafana’s World Cup Journey Reignites
Source: SABC Sport
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