Witbooi, a product of the School of Excellence, joined Cape Town City in January and made a strong impression. His talent earned him a call-up to the national team early last year, where he represented South Africa’s Under-15 side in the UEFA Under-16 International Development Tournament.
Kimberley-born Emile Witbooi, a soccer sensation currently playing for Cape Town City, has arrived in London for a four-week assessment with the English Premier League powerhouse, Chelsea Football Club.
Witbooi, a product of the School of Excellence, joined Cape Town City in January and made a strong impression. His talent earned him a call-up to the national team early last year, where he represented South Africa’s Under-15 side in the UEFA Under-16 International Development Tournament.
The 16-year-old rising star has already made a name for himself, securing the titles of Midfielder of the Tournament and Player of the Tournament at the SAFA Under-15 Inter-Provincial Tournament. He didn’t stop there, going on to win the Player of the Tournament accolade at the prestigious Under-19 Bayhill Premier Cup held in Cape Town, further showcasing his remarkable skills.
Witbooi recently played a key role in helping the South African Under-20 team clinch the COSAFA Under-20 Championship, securing their qualification for next year’s Under-20 AFCON.
In domestic competitions, his standout performances in the DStv Diski Challenge for Cape Town City have been nothing short of impressive, catching the eye of Chelsea, who have now invited him for a month-long trial with their Under-18 side.
The 16-year-old, son of former Mamelodi Sundowns winger Surprise Ralani, has been exceptional for both the Citizens’ DDC team and the South African Under-20 squad this season. Witbooi will undoubtedly aim to impress the Chelsea Under-18 coaches and work towards securing a potential contract with the West London club.
However, Cape Town City owner John Comitis has urged caution, noting that while Witbooi’s opportunity is exciting, the player is still only 16 and cannot consider a move abroad until he turns 18. For now, Comitis emphasized that the club’s priority is to foster a strong relationship with Chelsea.
