By Michael Madyira
Racing Strasbourg’s appointment of Arsenal legend Patrick Vieira as their new coach would be crucial in deciding Lebo Mothiba’s international career.
The former Crystal Palace manager was named Strasbourg coach earlier this week and will have to decide if he will keep Mothiba for next season.
The 27-year-old forward has fully recovered after struggling with fitness issues in recent seasons and managed to feature in 19 Ligue 1 matches last season.
But despite regaining full fitness and some game time, he has been frozen out of the Bafana Bafana squad by coach Hugo Broos.
The next few months would be key for Mothiba as his playing chances lie in Vieira’s hands if the Frenchman decides not to transfer-list him.
Changes are expected at Strasbourg with the club having just leapt into a new era with Vieira.
“A new cycle begins for Racing and it is exciting as a coach to be able to build something while relying on the values that have defined the strength of the club,” said Vieira.
“The rebuilding of the club in recent years, under the direction of Marc Keller [club president], is an example to be admired. Working with him is a real pleasure for me.”
Mothiba is part of the group in Austria preparing for the new season and his contract with the club expires in June 2024.
Vieira has so far not done much in refreshing his squad and has sent striker Lorenzo Depuidt out on loan to third-ter side Epina.
He is yet to announce new signings and departures but the next few days would be a busy transfer period for the Blue and Whites.
Mothiba would be keen to be retained and enjoy more playing opportunities to prove Broos that he deserves to be at the Africa Cup of Nations finals in January.
The South Africa international last played for Bafana at the 2019 Afcon squad at the tournament hosted by Egypt.
Pictured above: Bafana Bafana forward Lebo Mothiba
Image source: Racing Strasbourg
