Santana replaces Bafana coach Parreira

Former Bafana Bafana coach, Carlos Parreira

The South African Football Association (Safa) has appointed Joel Santana as Head Coach of Bafana Bafana. This follows a recommendation by Carlos Alberto Parreira to Safa and the subsequent acceptance of the job offer by Santana.

Safa CEO Raymond Hack will leave for Brazil this weekend to finalise the contract and other legal requirements, including the application for a South African work permit. The new Bafana coach is expected in the country on May 9.

Zuma shocked by Parreira’s resignation
Meanwhile, ANC President Jacob Zuma expressed shock at the resignation of Parreira. Parreira's resignation comes just 14 months ahead of the Confederations Cup in South Africa.

Speaking from London, Zuma said he was taken aback by news that Parreira would no longer lead Bafana Bafana to the 2010 Soccer World Cup. Parreira said this was a "very difficult, heartbreaking" decision for him to make. He said he could no longer maintain the balance between his personal and business life.

According to Hack, Parreira has agreed to remain a technical advisor to Safa. His technical staff would remain in South Africa and continue to prepare for the 2010 World Cup.