Mamelodi Sundowns are actively investing in their future, as evidenced
by their latest move to integrate 17-year-old defender Liam Marthinus into
the first-team environment. The promising youngster, who hails from Elsies
River in Cape Town, has been invited to train with the senior squad,
offering him a crucial first taste of life at the highest level of the game.
Marthinus has been on a steady ascent through the ranks at Chloorkop,
showcasing his potential as one of the country’s most promising defensive
talents. His pedigree is well-established, having been a key figure in
Sundowns’ Engen Knockout Challenge team and earning caps for South Africa at
the junior national level—a clear indicator of his standing within his age
group.
Those who have tracked his development point to a maturity that belies his
years. Scouts and coaches consistently highlight his exceptional composure
in possession, a sophisticated passing range, and a level of physical
strength that allows him to compete with far older opponents. For a
teenager, he already carries himself with the assurance of an established
professional.
This promotion aligns directly with the public vision outlined by Sundowns’
sporting director, Flemming Berg. Berg has been a vocal advocate for the
club’s renewed commitment to developing homegrown stars, ensuring a pipeline
of talent ready for national and international football.
In a recent social media post, Berg underscored this shift, pointing to
Sundowns’ representation in national youth setups while acknowledging a past
shortcoming. “The time when Sundowns didn’t play young players have passed –
we develop and prepare them for the highest national and international
level,” he stated, signaling a clear change in philosophy.
The inclusion of Liam Marthinus in senior training is a tangible
manifestation of that strategy. While a regular spot in the matchday squad
may still be on the horizon, this early exposure to the intensity, tactics,
and experienced professionals at Chloorkop is designed to accelerate his
growth. For the young defender from Elsies River, the opportunity to learn
alongside the stars of Mamelodi Sundowns is more than just a training
exercise—it is a formative experience that could define a career many
believe is destined for the top.
