Molefi Ntseki Tipped to Replace Walter Steenbok as SAFA Technical Director

The South African Football Association (SAFA) is moving swiftly to fill the vacancy left by Walter Steenbok, who recently stepped down from his role as Technical Director. According to insiders, Molefi Ntseki has emerged as the leading candidate to succeed Steenbok in one of the most pivotal technical positions within South African football.

Steenbok, who began his tenure in 2022, played a crucial role in reshaping SAFA’s technical framework, focusing on youth development and strategic planning. With his departure confirmed, the spotlight has shifted to Ntseki, whose vast experience and prior involvement in the national setup position him as a strong contender.

The former Bafana Bafana head coach made a quiet return to the SAFA fold earlier this year when he was tasked with leading the CHAN squad, stepping in for Helman Mkhalele. That opportunity came shortly after his stint as Technical Director at Marumo Gallants, a role that further deepened his technical credentials.

Sources within the football community suggest that Ntseki’s return to SAFA in a more permanent and senior capacity is on the cards. His extensive knowledge of the country’s footballing landscape and familiarity with the structures of the national teams make him an ideal replacement for Steenbok.

“You were spot on with your report that the TD (Steenbok) is no longer with the association and that the search for his replacement is underway. Molefi Ntseki is a strong candidate to fill the role,” a source confirmed to the Siya crew.

“Coach Ntseki’s work and contribution at SAFA are being appreciated by the president (Danny Jordaan). Both the president and the SAFA Technical Committee chairman, Jack Maluleka, are impressed with his work. Because of that, he stands a good chance of getting the role. A decision is expected to be made in the coming weeks, including the official announcement regarding the TD’s departure.”

While SAFA has yet to make a formal announcement, all signs point toward Ntseki’s appointment being imminent. His potential elevation to the Technical Director post would signal a desire for continuity, building on the groundwork laid by Steenbok while also infusing new energy into the association’s long-term football vision.

With a crucial role in shaping coaching strategies, youth development pipelines, and technical policy, the appointment of a new Technical Director is a decision of significant consequence — one that SAFA appears eager to finalize in the coming days.