Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie has offered words of encouragement to Sipho Mbule after the midfielder was left out of the preliminary Bafana Bafana squad for the FIFA World Cup.
The “Masterchef” played an important role in helping Bafana qualify for the tournament and was also part of the squad at the last AFCON competition.
The midfielder however, has struggled for game time at Orlando Pirates in 2026, making only a handful of appearances for the Buccaneers.
His limited involvement ultimately cost him a place in the national team setup.
Reports in recent months have also linked the talented playmaker with off-field issues, including alleged alcohol-related problems.
Sipho Mbule out of bafana squad
When the preliminary squad was announced on Thursday, Mbule’s omission quickly became one of the biggest talking points among supporters, with many speculating about the reasons behind his absence.
On Friday, McKenzie took to social media to publicly back the Pirates midfielder.
“A king that gave us so much, this is your moment to cook part two of your greatness. Your best years are ahead of you in football. Let the fools laugh at you, you have given us so so much Champ,” McKenzie posted on X.
The minister’s comments sparked mixed reactions from football fans online.
“All the best for the young man but it will take discipline to achieve all the greatness,” wrote user @Law_Jabs.
Another supporter, @King_MM_M, added: “The king must just leave alcohol. Period.”
Some fans compared Sipho Mbule’s situation to that of former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Dumisani Zuma, whose career was derailed by disciplinary and off-field issues.
“Remember that talented boy Dumisani Zuma, who is now 31? He ruined his career because of alcohol,” one fan commented.
Others called for intervention and support rather than public sympathy.
“Stop with the sentimental quotes… Book these guy into rehab while it’s off season then work on a program for him,” wrote @mzamo_Tido.
Another user questioned whether Sipho Mbule should still be viewed as a role model, saying: “We must stop glorifying mediocre. This guy is no role model.”