Former Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Benson Mhlongo has made a bold statement about his footballing ability, insisting that he believes he could still compete in the Premier Soccer League (PSL) if he commits himself to proper training and regains the necessary fitness levels.

The former Bafana Bafana international's remarks have sparked interest among South African football followers, particularly given his experience at the highest level of domestic football and his transition into coaching after retiring from professional football.

Mhlongo enjoyed a career that saw him represent some of South Africa's biggest clubs, including Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns. His time at the two Soweto and Tshwane giants exposed him to the demands of competing against some of the country's finest footballers, helping him develop valuable experience and an understanding of the professional game.

Despite stepping away from active football, Mhlongo appears confident that he has not completely lost the qualities that made him a professional player. He believes that with the right preparation and sufficient training, he could still hold his own against players currently competing in the country's top-flight league.

His comments emerged during an Onsideza feature on the Podcast and Chill Network, where his confidence in his playing abilities became a talking point among football followers.

However, returning to professional football would present significant challenges. The PSL requires players to maintain high levels of physical fitness, tactical awareness and consistency throughout a demanding season. Mhlongo would also need to demonstrate that he could match the pace and intensity of younger players competing at the highest level.

Nevertheless, his statement reflects his continued passion for football and belief in his abilities. While some supporters may question whether he could successfully make a comeback, others may view his confidence as a sign that his competitive spirit remains strong.

For now, Mhlongo has made his position clear, although there is no indication that he is planning an actual return to professional football. Whether he could translate his confidence into performances on the pitch remains an open question.

Source

https://x.com/podcastwithmacg/status/2112031277276622945