Kaizer Chiefs’ DStv Diski Challenge head coach Vela Khumalo says the club failed to recognise Emile Witbooi’s potential when the Cape Town City forward was assessed by them as a 13-year-old.
Witbooi, now 18, has emerged as one of South Africa’s most sought-after young players. He scored in the U/20 COSAFA Cup final as Amajita beat Mozambique 4-2.
The attacker has been linked with a number of clubs, including Kaizer Chiefs’ rivals Orlando Pirates. It has also been reported that he trained with the Bayern Munich youth team during pre-season.
Khumalo, who previously worked with Witbooi, admitted he did not identify the player’s full ability during his time at Chiefs.
“When he came to the club he was coming for U13 back then, so we couldn’t see much from him at that time,” Khumalo said on the Arena Sport Show with host Mahlatse Mphahlele.
The coach explained that Witbooi’s young age made it difficult for the club to assess his long-term potential.
“Later on, we said he was once here. Emile was once with us. I remember he came for assessment, but he was very, very young,” he said.
Khumalo said he subsequently tried to find out whether Witbooi could return to the club, but was told the opportunity had already passed.
“Later on, I asked Walter Steenbok [Technical Director at the time], I said, ‘man we need to bring this boy back again’ and he said, ‘no you guys didn’t take him, so, he’s gone now’,” he added.
Khumalo said the response was difficult to accept at the time.
“I took it with a bit of a pinch of salt,” he said.
Witbooi’s progress has since attracted significant attention, with reports linking him to interest from Europe. His next move could therefore prove difficult for Kaizer Chiefs, despite the fact that he currently plays in the lower division.
The teenager is regarded as the most sought-after young player in South Africa, while interest in him has grown following his performances for Amajita and Cape Town City.
