Is Gomolemo Kekana the Long-Term Replacement for Tebogo Mokoena at Mamelodi Sundowns?.
Mamelodi Sundowns Eye Future with Youth Promotion.
Mamelodi Sundowns, known for their robust financial backing and ability to sign top-tier players, are making headlines once again. This time, however, it’s not about a blockbuster transfer but a potential first-team promotion for a rising star from their youth academy. Gomolemo Kekana, an 18-year-old midfielder, is reportedly on the verge of being promoted to the senior team, sparking discussions about his potential to replace Tebogo Mokoena in the long term.
Sundowns’ Competitive Midfield Landscape
Over the years, Sundowns have established a reputation for stacking their squad with quality players, particularly in midfield. Big-money signings like Tebogo Mokoena, Sipho Mbule, Bathusi Aubaas, Marcelo Allende, Neo Maema, and Erwin Saavedra have fortified their midfield. These acquisitions have brought intense competition, often resulting in players being sold, released, or loaned out.
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Despite this depth, the technical team appears keen to integrate homegrown talent into the senior setup. Gomolemo Kekana’s performances in the Carling Black Label All-Stars match against Magesi FC seem to have solidified his chances of breaking into the first team.
Kekana’s Rise: From Youth Star to First-Team Prospect
Kekana delivered a standout performance while anchoring the midfield alongside Bathusi Aubaas, with Samkelo Zwane supporting in an advanced role. Reports suggest his display was no fluke, as he had already been under the radar of Sundowns’ technical team.
A source close to the club revealed:
“You remember the boy who played alongside Bathusi Aubaas and Samkelo Zwane in the Carling Black Label All Stars team? The one who was wearing jersey number 8? Yes, Gomolemo Kekana. Sundowns are set to promote him to the senior team. They have already offered him a senior team contract. He is very good. He can actually easily slot into the first team, and that’s why the technical team has been monitoring him. Even before the Carling Black Label Cup game against Magesi FC, he was on the team’s radar for promotion.”
Why Sundowns Are Betting on Kekana
The young midfielder’s defensive prowess and skill set make him an ideal candidate to provide cover for senior players like Mokoena and Aubaas. A second source elaborated on the rationale behind promoting Kekana:
“Despite him (Kekana) being so skilful, he is actually a defensive midfielder. And you know the senior team has only Tebza (Teboho Mokoena) and Bathusi in that department. That’s the other reason why they need him in the senior team. In the event that both or even one is unavailable, he can be considered for game time. This promotion will help him grow while building a strong team for the future alongside other young stars like Mali (Malibongwe Khoza), Siyabonga Mabena, and Kutlwano Letlhaku.”
The Bigger Picture: Sundowns’ Youth Strategy
Promoting Kekana is part of Sundowns’ broader strategy to integrate more youth players into their senior team. With talents like Malibongwe Khoza, Siyabonga Mabena, and Kutlwano Letlhaku already making waves, the club is positioning itself for sustained success by nurturing its next generation of stars.
Is Promotion the Right Call?
Kekana’s promotion raises an important question: Is he ready for the demands of senior football? While his potential is evident, adapting to the pace and physicality of top-flight football will be a significant challenge. However, giving young talents opportunities aligns with Sundowns’ vision of creating a balanced team that blends experience with youth.
