Barker reveals Stellenbosch FC stance on Jayden Adams amidst Sundowns interest
Stellenbosch FC head coach, Steve Barker, has made the club’s stance on Jayden Adams clear amidst interest from Mamelodi Sundowns.
Adams, a product of Stellenbosch’s youth academy, has become a key player for the club and recently signed a long-term contract.
Bursting onto the scene at 19 with his debut against Chippa United in 2020, Adams has racked up over 100 appearances for Stellenbosch, even adding a Carling Knockout Cup win to his achievements.
His performances for the Cape Winelands club earned him a place in the Bafana Bafana squad that finished third in the 2023 AFCON finals in Ivory Coast.
Barker regards the 22-year-old as part of a core group of young players crucial to Stellenbosch’s future success.
Sundowns, a powerhouse in South African football, is known for attracting top talent. Their reported interest in Adams is a testament to his growing reputation. However, Barker appears determined to resist any offers and keep Adams as a key figure in their push for trophies.
WHAT STEVE BARKER SAID ABOUT JAYDEN ADAMS
“I think I’ve addressed that sort of question on a number of occasions. I don’t think now is the right time,” said Barker. “Obviously, we need to concentrate on what we need to do in the short term, that’s to continue to have a solid season. Players like Jayden are important.
“So we need him to be focused and be with us and be present till the end of the season. And then we’ll see what happens.”
In a previous interview, he emphasised the club’s desire to build a team capable of challenging for trophies and retaining young talent like Adams is central to that plan.
“We identified a core group of players we need to keep if the club wants to win trophies,” Barker said. “Players like Jayden Adams and Devin Titus are part of that group. And hopefully, they’re committed to the club for the long term.”
It remains to be seen if Sundowns will push for Adams’s signature, but Stellenbosch’s stance is clear. The Cape Town club views him as a vital part of their team’s future.
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