The Betway Premiership continues to be a fertile ground for emerging
talent, and former Orlando Pirates forward James Mothibi has identified
eight youngsters he believes are poised for stardom.
In an exclusive interview with PSLSA, Mothibi did not hesitate to share his
picks, leading with a player whose career trajectory is already
skyrocketing.
1. Mbekezeli Mbokazi (Orlando Pirates → Chicago Fire)
Topping Mothibi’s list is the recently departed Pirates captain. “My number
one, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, has been in progress. He was the captain of Orlando
Pirates, has now signed with Chicago Fire, and is playing for Bafana Bafana.
That is my number one.”
2. Puso Dithejane (TS Galaxy)
Mothibi highlighted the TS Galaxy defender as a model of consistency. “He
left Kaizer Chiefs, climbed his way up at TS Galaxy, and became one of the
favourites in the PSL. He has been very disciplined and consistent.” Mothibi
strongly believes his form warrants a national team call-up: “He deserves to
be in Bafana Bafana.”
3. Relebogile Mofokeng (Orlando Pirates)
Praising the winger’s resilience, Mothibi said, “The boy was injured but had
the heart to come back as he did, and he’s been chosen for Bafana Bafana. He
is skilful and deserves to be in the top [young talents].”
4. Mduduzi Shabalala (Kaizer Chiefs)
The Kaizer Chiefs attacker earned his spot for his impactful performances.
“Mduduzi Shabalala has been doing wonders for Kaizer Chiefs and has been
performing.”
5. Mfundo Vilakazi (Kaizer Chiefs)
Mothibi described the young Chiefs talent as “the underrated Mfundo
Vilakazi,” grouping him with Dithejane and Shabalala as players who “had to
be in the [Bafana] squad.”
6. Camren Dansin (Orlando Pirates)
The Pirates midfielder impressed Mothibi with his immediate impact. “A young
boy who has been doing very well… and scored a cracker against Sundowns.”
7. Malibongwe Khoza (Mamelodi Sundowns)
The Sundowns defender was commended for his discipline and composure. “He
has been starting, with no red cards. Never got a red card, which means the
boy is really disciplined.”
8. Emile Witbooi (Cape Town City)
Rounding out the list is the Cape Town City talent. “Number eight, in my
opinion, will be Emile Witbooi,” Mothibi stated, acknowledging the
youngster’s promising development.
Mothibi’s selections highlight a blend of attacking flair, defensive
solidity, and mental fortitude, painting a bright picture for the future of
South African football.
