We’ve entered an exciting stage in the PSL where coaches are no longer shy to throw youngsters into the deep end. Glance across the board at matchday squads in the Betway Premiership, and the shift is undeniable.
That reality was stamped loud and clear when 21-year-old Relebohile Mofokeng was crowned last season’s Player of the Season.
While Mofokeng has already moved on from the PSL after securing a blockbuster move to Belgium, there’s still a host of other exciting youngsters ready to shine. Today, we take a look at five of the league’s brightest rising stars.
Five youngsters you need to keep an eye on
Neo Rapoo is one to look out for. The 20-year-old left-back sealed a blockbuster move to Orlando Pirates last month after impressing out at Siwelele FC.
Last season, he made 27 appearances for the Free State outfit, registering three assists. He’s expected to be Deon Hotto’s long-term replacement at Pirates.
Across Soweto, Kaizer Chiefs fan-favourite Mfundo Vilakazi is quickly emerging as one of the league’s most electrifying talents. Despite his tender age, the 20-year-old has already racked up 64 senior appearances, scoring six goals and assisting five more.
Carrying the immense expectations of the Amakhosi faithful, ‘Obrigado’ looks set to play a key role for Chiefs this season under new coach Fernando Da Cruz.
After sealing a dream move from Stellenbosch to Kaizer Chiefs, young forward Langelihle Phili is indeed one to watch. At Stellies, the 21-year-old winger scored 11 goals while assisting two more in 72 senior appearances.
Over at TS Galaxy, dynamic winger Seluleko Mahlambi is making waves as one of the most exciting young talents in the Betway Premiership. In his stunning breakthrough season, the 21-year-old winger scored six goals and registered six assists for The Rockets.
South Africa’s brightest talent
And finally, we reach arguably the hottest prospect in South African football right now. While he doesn’t feature in the Betway Premiership, the Motsepe Foundation Championship still falls under the PSL’s umbrella hence his inclusion.
Son of former PSL star Surprise Ralani, Emile Witbooi has emerged as a star of his own. The Cape Town City attacking midfielder was named as the MFC Young Player of the Season and Players’ Player of the Season last season.
At the tender age of 17, Witbooi is already drawing attention from not just South Africa’s big-guns but European elites as well. Make no mistake, he is firmly one for the future.
Photo: Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images
