Hugo Broos has turned down an offer from the South African Football Association to extend his tenure as Bafana Bafana head coach, with his formal departure expected to be confirmed on Friday, according to The South African.

The 74-year-old Belgian leaves behind a record to be proud of. He guided South Africa to a bronze medal at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations and steered Bafana Bafana back to the FIFA World Cup, where the team reached the knockout stages for the first time.

Offer came too late

SAFA had reportedly hoped Broos would remain in charge through to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. However, sources indicate he felt the offer arrived too late, and he had already made up his mind about stepping away from full-time management.

Broos has been candid about his desire to step back from the day-to-day demands of international coaching. He previously stated he does not want to "die on the bench" after nearly 40 years in the game — a sentiment that appears to have shaped his final decision.

Family and future plans

The Belgian coach has expressed a wish to spend more time with his family following the end of his five-year contract. Despite walking away from the head coach role, Broos has left open the possibility of contributing to South African football in an advisory or scouting capacity.

SAFA's briefing on Friday is also expected to lay out the association's plans for appointing a new head coach in time for the 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign.