Mame Niang Eyes Return to South Africa to Begin Coaching Career

After eight years away from South Africa, former Mamelodi Sundowns and Moroka Swallows striker Mame Niang is planning a return to begin a new chapter in football. The towering forward, known for his aerial strength and physical presence, has transitioned into coaching and now wants to bring his European experience back home.

Niang, who spent several years in Norway, had two successful playing spells there before taking up a coaching role at Kongsvinger. He has been working with youth players and guiding lower-division teams in the country’s fourth and fifth tiers.

Speaking to Soccer Laduma, Niang confirmed his plans to return to South Africa. “I spoke to my agent about it and the plan is to come back. I have been coaching in the fourth and fifth division in Norway. I’ve been working in the academy in Norway. I’ve come back to Africa to do my CAF D License because apparently they don’t accept the UEFA ones in Africa now. I’ve got a UEFA D and C License,” he said.

The Senegalese-born coach is currently finalizing his paperwork as he eyes opportunities in the Premier Soccer League (PSL) or the DStv Diski Challenge. His goal is to continue developing young players and share the knowledge he gained in Europe’s structured football systems.

“I haven’t spoken to anyone in South Africa yet about coming back. I’ve only spoken to my agent, so he will look for opportunities for me,” Niang explained. “With the experience I have, I can help a lot. When I was working under Pitso Mosimane at Sundowns, he told me that I’d make a good coach, but I never paid much attention to it. It’s because whenever we were doing analysis, I contributed with my tactical knowledge, so he always told me I’d make a good coach. Working under Pitso and Gavin Hunt, those were the best coaches.”

Niang’s connection with South African football runs deep. During his time in the PSL, he earned a reputation as a hard-working forward who could change games with his physical dominance and intelligent movement. His spells with Mamelodi Sundowns, Moroka Swallows, and SuperSport United made him a familiar name to local fans.

Now, Niang wants to give back to the league that shaped part of his career. His experience under top coaches like Pitso Mosimane and Gavin Hunt has strengthened his belief that he can succeed in a technical role.

If his return materializes, Niang will join a growing list of former PSL players who have transitioned into coaching. His arrival could also benefit South African football development, particularly in nurturing young talent at academy level.

With his coaching licenses, international exposure, and first-hand understanding of South African football culture, Mame Niang’s return could signal an exciting addition to the PSL coaching landscape.