South African Youngster Gets Invite From European Giants Amid Links With Orlando Pirates
- Cape Town City chairman John Comitis confirmed Bayern Munich has extended an invitation to 17-year-old Emile Witbooi
- Comitis revealed no formal offers have arrived from Orlando Pirates or Mamelodi Sundowns despite widespread speculation
- The club chairman set a firm condition for any potential PSL transfer, raising concerns about Witbooi's development
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Cape Town City chairman John Comitis has moved to set the record straight on the future of teenage midfielder Emile Witbooi, dismissing reports of concrete local interest, while confirming that Bayern Munich has formally invited the 17-year-old for a visit.
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Speaking on Sports Night Amplified with Andile Ncube, Comitis confirmed that neither Orlando Pirates nor Mamelodi Sundowns have submitted formal offers for Witbooi, despite widespread speculation linking the youngster to the Soweto giants.
No offers, but playing time is the priority
Following his standout campaign in the Motsepe Foundation Championship, where he was voted Players' Player of the Season, Witbooi has emerged as one of the country's most sought-after young talents. Reports have linked both Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns with a move for the promising youngster.
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Comitis admitted there has been plenty of interest but insisted that negotiating a transfer fee would not be the biggest obstacle if either of the Betway Premiership giants came calling.
According to Comitis, reaching an agreement with Pirates or Sundowns would not be difficult, as he believes there is always a way to structure a deal that suits both clubs. Instead, his main priority is ensuring the player's development is not compromised.
Comitis stressed that any move must come with a genuine opportunity for regular first-team football. He warned that joining a bigger club only to spend most of the time on the bench could stall Witbooi's progress, arguing that the youngster needs consistent minutes to continue his growth. In his view, a transfer only makes sense if the teenager is trusted to play, as a lack of game time could ultimately hinder his development rather than enhance it.
Bayern Munich invitation under consideration
Beyond local interest, Comitis disclosed that Witbooi has attracted attention from international clubs, including enquiries from Major League Soccer sides. Most significantly, an invitation from German giants Bayern Munich is now being considered by the club.
"We've got an invitation for him to go to Bayern Munich which we're now considering, only just to keep him relevant for his own good to see which level he has to be reaching," Comitis revealed.
This would not be Witbooi's first exposure to elite European football. Comitis confirmed the player has previously been on trial at Chelsea and visited Sporting Lisbon at the Portuguese club's request, indicating the level of international regard already surrounding the teenager.
Comitis also cautioned against a last-minute transfer that could disrupt Cape Town City's own preparations for a title challenge, underscoring that timing remains a critical factor in any decision.
Kaizer Chiefs star dedicates MOTM to grandmother
Briefly News earlier reported that a Kaizer Chiefs star has dedicated his Man of the Match award against Kruger United to his grandmother in Cape Town.
The Glamour Boys player also explained the reason behind the emotional moment he had with Kaizer Motaung Jr. at the end of the match.
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Source: Briefly News
