SAFA Scrutinizes Impact of Foreign Goalkeepers on Local Talent Development in DStv Premiership

• SAFA is scrutinizing the impact of foreign goalkeepers on local talent in the PSL
• There are concerns about the potential stifling effect on homegrown talent
• SAFA also clarified bonus payments for Bafana players following AFCON 2023

The South African Football Association (SAFA) has redirected its focus to the influx of foreign goalkeepers in the DSTv Premiership.

The aim is to examine the potential hindrance they may pose to the growth of homegrown talent.

SAFA's Technical Director, Walter Steenbok, confirmed the organization's commitment to monitoring the influence of foreigners in the local football scene.

This scrutiny arises from ongoing debates surrounding the state of goalkeeping in South Africa, with concerns raised about the impact of foreign shot-stoppers on the emergence of local talent.

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After the AFCON 2023 tournament on February 11, 2024, five foreign goalkeepers from the Premier Soccer League (PSL) participated, representing their respective nations. Notable among them were Stanley Nwabali of Chippa United for Nigeria, Badra Sangare of Sekhukhune United for Ivory Coast, and Richard Ofori of Orlando Pirates for Ghana.

The PSL currently boasts 15 foreign goalkeepers, half of whom regularly feature for their clubs. These include players from various African nations such as Uganda, Zimbabwe, and Nigeria and international recruits from Europe.

Steenbok stressed the need to consider the situation carefully, reaffirming SAFA's commitment to monitoring the issue closely throughout the year.

“As much as we have a responsibility to develop the game, not only for South Africa but also for the whole continent. We need to be mindful of the effects and the huge risk that this will have.," he said, as quoted by Far Post.

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SAFA address Bafana bonus payments

SAFA recently clarified concerns over bonus payments for Bafana Bafana players following AFCON 2023. Reports had suggested payment disputes, prompting a statement explaining the matter.

They confirmed contractual agreements between the association and senior players regarding bonus payments were in place.

"We wish to confirm that a contract was signed between the Association and the senior players representing the team where the payments and bonuses were agreed upon," said SAFA.

Uncertainty over Bafana’s AFCON 2023 bonuses

Sports Brief reported that there had been uncertainty over Bafana AFCON 2023 player bonuses after the SAFA President, Danny Jordaan, remained tight-lipped regarding the amounts.

Hugo Broos' men performed commendably in the tournament in Abidjan, finishing third.

Despite earning R47 million for this, Jordaan refrained from disclosing the exact bonus figures for the players.