Sphephelo Sithole Discusses Future Aspirations Amidst Bafana Bafana Challenges

Sphephelo Sithole, affectionately known as “Yaya” within the football community, has articulated his aspirations for the future, indicating a desire to transition from his current club, CD Tondela, which competes in Liga Portugal. The midfielder is thoughtfully considering his options as he seeks a new challenge that will facilitate his continued growth and allow him to regain regular playing time. A potential return to the Premier Soccer League is also on the horizon, particularly following the conclusion of the Afcon tournament.

Despite earning the trust of head coach Hugo Broos within the Bafana Bafana setup, the KwaZulu-Natal-born midfielder has encountered his share of criticism from fans and commentators. Nevertheless, a small yet significant faction—including Broos—recognizes his talents, as evidenced by the coach’s consistent inclusion of him in the starting lineup.

This delicate interplay between external skepticism and internal confidence has characterized his Nations Cup experience, underscoring both the challenges he faces and the potential impact he can have on the national team.

The 26-year-old candidly shared his future aspirations with the media, expressing his desire to continue his career elsewhere. “For my future, I think that’s a good question. After this tournament, I want to get a better opportunity to go and play somewhere else,” Sithole stated during a press interaction.

He elaborated on his sentiments, stating, “I want to go elsewhere because I have been in Portugal for the past eight years, close to nine now. So I think moving beyond Portugal, if opportunities arise, could be beneficial for my career.”

Sithole acknowledged the recent signing of a new deal but hinted at ongoing discussions that could facilitate a move if circumstances align favorably. When questioned about the prestigious clubs in the Premier Soccer League, where many of his Bafana teammates are playing, he noted, “Yes, I’m leaving the decision up to the teams.”

As a product of a KwaZulu-Natal academy, Sithole has previously expressed interest in joining the Soweto giants. “I spoke to Kaizer Chiefs, I think it was last season,” he recalled during an interview on PowerFM Sport.

“I feel prepared to compete wherever I am placed, as I have been in Europe for nearly six years. This is not an entirely new environment for me. I understand what is expected and the advantages of the European game, so I believe I am ready for this next step.”

Sithole remarked that the Mzansi side has not yet showcased its complete potential as initially anticipated. However, he remains optimistic that the team will rediscover its identity and enhance its performance as the tournament unfolds.

“We are playing in patches, and we are a team accustomed to dominating for the full 90 minutes. This has not been the case in our last three matches during Afcon, but we aim to improve because we are capable of doing so,” Yaya explained.

He candidly pointed out, “It is true that we are used to maintaining possession, yet we have occasionally misplaced passes, which is uncharacteristic of this team. We must enhance this aspect to ensure our game is more complete.”

“Other critical areas requiring improvement include winning duels both on the ground and in the air, as well as enhancing our inter-passing. Typically, our play originates from the midfield, and if that area is not performing well, it adversely affects the entire team’s stability.”

“We must excel in the fundamentals, and if we do, our outcomes will improve,” he concluded.

As the South African team prepares to rectify their previous mistakes, they aim to overcome Cameroon—under the guidance of their former coach Broos. With the ambition of advancing deep into the tournament remaining steadfast, Bafana understands that significant improvements and tactical refinements will be essential to realize their potential.