One footballer’s dream of playing the game at the highest level might have come sooner than he thought – and if his dream materializes, we will soon have yet another star plying his trade in Europe.
Known to be a sports-loving nation, South Africa prides itself on having produced some world-class footballers over the years. From players like Benni McCarthy, Lucas Radebe, Steven Pienaar, Percy Tau and even current Bafana striker Lyle Foster, each of these players has made their mark and flown the SA flag high while signing at various overseas clubs.
Now, a new breed of talent, Emile Witbooi, will soon have the opportunity to show his worth after being invited to fly to England to attend trials for the Premier League side Chelsea Football Club.
The 16-year-old Cape Town City player is known to be quite a talent when it comes to his abilities on the football field and has been spotted by several European Clubs in recent times with Chelsea making a move.
According to news publication The South African, Emile will be attending a four-week trial at their base in London.
He recently landed in the country and has already been posing for pictures and touring through the various facilities on offer.
𝗪𝗜𝗧𝗕𝗢𝗢𝗜 𝗔𝗥𝗥𝗜𝗩𝗘𝗦 𝗙𝗢𝗥 𝗖𝗛𝗘𝗟𝗦𝗘𝗔 𝗔𝗦𝗦𝗘𝗦𝗦𝗠𝗘𝗡𝗧
16 year old Emile Witbooi arrived at Chelea’s academy for his 4-week assessment as first reported by @Makonco_M. ✈️🏴
He will form part of the U18 side. They also have a U19, and U21 side. 🔵 pic.twitter.com/vmsHbnSVmM
— Sahil Ebrahim (@sahil_e_) November 5, 2024
According to the above-mentioned publication, it turns out that the love for football runs in Emile’s genes, this comes as it was reported that he is the son of Bradley Ralani, a player who also previously played for teams like Cape Town City, Cape Town Spurs, Mamelodi Sundown’s and several others.
If all goes well, this 16-year-old could be a promising player in the Bafana squad soon.
Also see: Bafana’s Lyle Foster suffers another setback after mental health complications