Every footballer needs to respect the contract

In South African football, the voice of the players often sparks heated debates, with questions raised about representation, rights, and the role of the unions that serve them. Tebogo Monyai, acting president of the South African Football Players Union (SAFPU), sat down with us to address these concerns head-on. In this interview with Soccer Laduma’s Masebe Qina, Monyai spoke frankly about the union’s mandate, the misconceptions surrounding his leadership, and the ongoing efforts to protect and develop players both on and off the field. From contractual disputes to career development and education, he lays out SAFPU’s mission with clarity, transparency, and a passion for the game that goes far beyond the 90 minutes on the pitch.

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In South African football, the voice of the players often sparks heated debates, with questions raised about representation, rights, and the role of the unions that serve them. Tebogo Monyai, acting president of the South African Football Players Union (SAFPU), sat down with us to address these concerns head-on. In this interview with Soccer Laduma’s Masebe Qina, Monyai spoke frankly about the union’s mandate, the misconceptions surrounding his leadership, and the ongoing efforts to protect and develop players both on and off the field. From contractual disputes to career development and education, he lays out SAFPU’s mission with clarity, transparency, and a passion for the game that goes far beyond the 90 minutes on the pitch.

ing for a club?

TM: Let me explain. There are strategic positions in the union. The President and General Secretary are full-time roles with salaries. Other positions, like mine as acting president or first vice-president, are part-time and not salaried. I work as a scout for AmaTuks, which is separate from my union role. There’s no conflict in holding a nonsalaried union role while working elsewhere. All policies and constitutions of SAFPU allow this. For example, George Maluleka is Deputy Secretary-General while being a player, and he can seek employment elsewhere without conflict. People misunderstand the difference between being a scout and being an agent. As a scout, I identify talent and recommend players to clubs. If a player wants union representation, the secretary-general handles it. I don’t negotiate salaries or contracts directly. The Secretary-General manages all administrative and legal union matters.

MQ: Some claim that SAFPU’s leadership, including yourself, is motivated by personal gain rather than player welfare. How do you respond?