COMMENT | Exploring potential replacements for Steve Barker at Stellenbosch FC

The void that Steve Barker has left at Stellenbosch is huge, which is why it will take someone with tactical acumen, charisma, and energy to fill it.

Barker not only transformed the team, but also built a solid structure, which has been beneficial to the club, its rivals, and the national team.

The club has reportedly already been in talks with veteran coach Gavin Hunt to fill Barker’s shoes - an appointment that could certainly divide opinion, given all that Hunt has endured in recent years.

Without involving Hunt, we look at three other candidates who could potentially replace Barker and steer the club into calmer waters while building on the outgoing coach's foundation.

Alexandre Lafitte

Lafitte is the youngest coach in the PSL top flight. In just half a year, he has done a terrific job with Marumo Gallants, showing tactical prowess and an ability to get the best out of his players.

He has already led Gallants to the Carling Knockout final - their first major final since Dan Malesela’s Nedbank Cup defeat in 2022. Players such as Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo are enjoying their football again, having joined the club to revive their careers.

Lafitte would fit in like a glove at Stellenbosch. He would work with a youthful squad that relies on speed and a transitional approach - key elements in shaping the team’s structure.

With Stellenbosch known as a selling club following its focus on player development, Lafitte should thrive in that environment. At his previous clubs across Africa, he excelled in this regard while also winning trophies.

Arthur Zwane

Zwane thrived in the youth ranks at Kaizer Chiefs, and that foundation proved key in helping the club get a return on its investment as those players were eventually promoted to the senior team, where they excelled.

His ability to work with youngsters has once again shone at AmaZulu, with players such as Liam Bern, Siyanda Hlangabeza, and Nkosikhona Radebe looking comfortable in top-flight football.

Zwane’s strengths extend beyond youth development. He builds his teams around structured build-up play, encouraging creativity and versatility. With Stellenbosch boasting pacey players, Zwane could blend their transitional style with his own philosophy.

Phuti Mohafe

Mohafe is widely regarded as one of the tactically astute coaches in the PSL. He goes about his business quietly while consistently grinding out results.

While he has yet to win silverware with Polokwane City, his role in the revival of Oswin Appollis’ career and the club’s regular top-eight finishes cannot be overlooked. He has helped steer the club in a positive direction since his arrival.

His transitional style of play would complement Stellenbosch’s squad and provide continuity in the club’s footballing identity.

Although Mohafe is down to earth, he is a no-nonsense disciplinarian. His players are expected to be disciplined at all times and maintain high standards - values that align closely with those upheld by Stellenbosch.