Mamelodi Sundowns have signed a highly-rated Cape Town City FC starlet on a long-term deal just two years after he joined The Citizens.
The 16-year-old Lizalise Mahumza completed a switch to Sundowns this week, just days after receiving his clearance.
CT City scouted the teenager in the annual AmaMpondo Sports Foundation Tournament two years ago when he was 14. They beat off competition from Downs, Cape Town Spurs, and SuperSport United, whose scouts were keen on him.
Sundowns have reportedly followed the left-footed defensive midfielder since his move to City. Mahumza is seen as one of the brightest prospects in youth football.
Earlier this week, the youngster received his clearance from City and headed to Gauteng. The youngster is expected to go straight into Sundowns’ DStv Diski Challenge squad in January 2024.
The teenage starlet, who can equally use his right, will be hoping to further develop at the Tshwane side.
WHAT ASF SAID ABOUT NEWLY-SIGNED SUNDOWNS STAR LIZALISE MAHUMZA
Founder of the AmaMpondo tournament, Zuki Ngundze, said while they were not aware of the move, they were pleased to see the youngster make strides in youth football.
“Lizalise is a very talented player,” Ngundze said.
“The scouts who were here [in Lusikisiki – Eastern Cape] two years ago all said the same thing about him. They praised him for having all the attributes to be a top midfielder. He’s good on the ball, has good vision, and can score goals.
“He is still young, but he has a lot of potential. We are delighted if, indeed, he is now at Mamelodi Sundowns.”
She believes a move for the youngster to Masandawana would be a step in the right direction.
“I know there is a lot of competition for places at Sundowns, but you want to be in such a set-up as a youngster. I am sure he can prove himself if he works hard and learns from some of the best youth players in the country.”
In recent times, Sundowns have brought up young players from their development side. Cassius Mailula made his senior team debut in September 2022, and exactly a year later, he plies his trade in the MLS. Mailula turns out for Toronto FC, where he is contracted until 2026.
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