South African coach Pitso Mosimane has confirmed that discussions are underway regarding a potential move to lead the Libya national football team, as the country searches for a new head coach following the resignation of Aliou Cisse earlier this month.
Cisse stepped down at the beginning of April, prompting Libyan football authorities to begin the process of identifying a successor capable of restoring competitiveness and guiding the team back to continental relevance. The immediate objective is qualification for the Africa Cup of Nations 2027, after Libya failed to reach the last seven editions of the competition.
Mosimane, who previously coached Al Ahly SC, acknowledged that he has been approached, though he remains undecided about taking on the role.
“There are always negotiations. Some people have spoken to us recently about coaching the Libyan national team, but do I really want to go there? I don’t know,” he said during an interview on MSW radio with Robert Marawa.
Multiple offers under consideration
The 61-year-old indicated that interest in his services extends beyond Libya, with several clubs and national setups exploring the possibility of appointing him.
“There are negotiations with clubs in Algeria, Egypt and Tunisia, and there are also discussions in the UAE. Believe me, there are always discussions for a new coaching assignment,” he added.
Mosimane’s most recent managerial role was with Esteghlal Tehran, where his tenure ended in January 2025. His extensive experience across Africa and Asia has made him a prominent candidate for high-profile coaching positions.
Libya’s search for stability
The Libyan national team faces a critical period, having struggled with inconsistency and frequent managerial changes in recent years. Over the past eight years, 13 different coaches have taken charge, contributing to a decline in performance and identity.
The Libyan Football Federation, led by Abdul-Mawla Al-Maghribi, is now under pressure to make a decisive and effective appointment that can reverse this trend.
Securing a coach with a long-term vision is seen as essential, particularly with upcoming African qualifiers presenting an opportunity to rebuild the team’s standing on the continental stage.
Mosimane outlines conditions for success
Despite the interest, Mosimane emphasised that any potential role with a national team would require a structured and sustained project rather than short-term expectations.
“Coaching national teams like the Libyan national team requires a long-term project in order to achieve the desired results, rather than participating in short tournaments that do not guarantee the sufficient technical stability that I aspire to in my career,” he said.
His remarks underline the importance of strategic planning and continuity, factors that have been lacking in Libya’s recent football history.
Proven track record at continental level
Mosimane brings a strong record of success, particularly in African club football. He guided Mamelodi Sundowns to the CAF Champions League title in 2016 and later won the same competition twice with Al Ahly.
In addition to his achievements in Africa, he has gained experience in Asia through coaching roles in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Iran, broadening his tactical and managerial profile.
A pivotal decision for Libya’s future
As Libya continues its search for a new head coach, the potential appointment of Mosimane represents both an opportunity and a test of the federation’s long-term vision.
With the national team aiming to end years of underperformance and return to major tournaments, the next managerial decision could play a decisive role in shaping the future of Libyan football.
