The 10 youngest debutants in PSL history – where are they now?

Only a handful of players in PSL history have debuted before turning 16 – Max Dowman did it in England, but South Africa has its own list of teenage prodigies who lit up our league.”

Over the years, the PSL has produced a fascinating roster of teenage talents, each with their own story of promise, struggle, and achievement. From the dazzling flair of 15-year-old Mkhanyiseli Siwahla to the continued rise of 16-year-old Siyabonga Mabena, these players offer a glimpse into the future of South African football.

IOL Sport looks back at the youngest players who have graced our very own PSL, tracing their journeys from teenage prodigies to the professionals they became.

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1. Mkhanyiseli Siwahla – 15 and 175 days – Ajax Cape Town vs Dynamos, 25 Feb 2004

Playing for Ajax Cape Town, Siwahla’s early performances showed flair and raw talent – he was fast, skillful on the ball, and capable of moments of brilliance that made him a standout among his peers. Despite the early hype, he struggled with consistency, discipline, and the mental pressure of being labelled the “next big thing” at such a young age. His career saw ups and downs, including spells in lower divisions. However, injuries and off-field issues hampered his progression.

2. Kobamelo Kodisang – 15 and 363 days – Platinum Stars vs Golden Arrows, 26 Aug 2015

Like Siwahla, he was highly rated as a teenager, with speed, skill, and technical ability that set him apart from peers. Unlike Siwahla, Kodisang moved abroad early. He joined Porto B in Portugal, which gave him exposure to European training and competitions. Last season, aged 25, he returned to South Africa and signed for Mamelodi Sundowns. However, after struggling for regular minutes, he’s returned to Portugal on loan and currently plays for Avs Futebol in the Portuguese top flight.

3. Siyabonga Mabena – 16 and 24 days – Mamelodi Sundowns vs Royal AM, 14 Mar 2023

Siyabonga Mabena is still only 18, and still plays for Mamelodi Sundowns. After playing a good number of games for the first team during the 2023/24 campaign, he missed most of the 2024/25 season due to injury. His early achievements suggest a bright future in football. His technical skills, combined with his experience at both club and international levels, position him as one of South Africa's most exciting young talents.

4. Jabulani Ncobeni – 16 and 30 days – Maritzburg United vs Ajax Cape Town, 17 Jan 2009

Now aged 32, Ncobeni began his professional football career at the age of 16 with Maritzburg United in 2009. Playing mainly as a left winger and central midfielder, he’s had a journeyman career, playing for the likes of Thanda Royal Zulu, Golden Arrows, AmaZulu, and Bloemfontein Celtic. Last season, he was on the books of Royal AM. While his early career showed promise, he was never able to stand out.

5. Philani Khwela – 16 and 174 days – SuperSport United vs Black Leopards, 13 Feb 2008

Beginning his career in 2008, Khwela’s early days showed promise. In 2010, he signed for Dutch Eredivisie side Excelsior, where it was expected he would go to the next level. However, after two years in Europe, he was back in South Africa and had spells with SuperSport United, University of Pretoria, and Chippa United. According to Transfermarkt, Khwela, now aged 34, currently plays for amateur outfit Alexandra Black Aces.

6. Emile Witbooi – 16 and 185 days – Cape Town City vs AmaZulu, 3 May 2025

Witbooi only turns 17 on Thursday, and is regarded as one of the most exciting young players currently in South Africa. The son of former Sundowns star Bradley Ralani, Witbooi is praised for his exceptional close control and dribbling. He is also comfortable with both feet, making him very valuable in attack. Last year, his talent attracted attention from top European clubs, and he spent some time on trial at Chelsea. With Cape Town City playing in the second tier, he is expected to get a lot of first team football this season, which will only aid his development.

7. Liam Jordan – 16 and 227 days – Bidvest Wits vs University of Pretoria, 17 Mar 2015

Jordan's early career was filled with potential. Liam is the son of the late former Manning Rangers striker Keryn Jordan, and big things were expected when he played his first game for Bidvest Wits at just 16 years old back in 2015. However, things have not gone as planned for the 27-year-old Durban-born Liam, who currently finds himself without a club after being released by Brommapojkarna in Sweden.

8. Daylon Claasen – 16 and 303 days – Ajax Cape Town vs Platinum Stars, 26 Nov 2006

Born in Klerksdorp, Claasen began his professional career with Ajax Cape Town, making his senior debut in 2006. Over his career, Claasen has accumulated over 300 professional appearances across various leagues, including the the Betway Premiership, Belgian Pro League, Polish Ekstraklasa, and German 2. Bundesliga. Last season, he was at Cape Town Spurs in South Africa’s second tier. On the international stage, he won 11 caps for Bafana Bafana.

9. Augistine Mahlonoko – 16 and 347 days – Orlando Pirates vs Highlands Park, 4 Aug 2018

Still only aged 24, Mahlonoko remains active in South African football, playing for Casric Stars. In August 2018, he became the youngest player ever in Orlando Pirates’ history, but he was never able to get enough playing time. His early promise and recent move to Casric Stars FC indicate that he is working towards revitalising his career. He still has time on his side.

10. Lyle Foster – 17 and 12 days – Orlando Pirates vs Maritzburg United, 15 Sep 2017

Lyle Foster was only 17 when he made his senior debut for Orlando Pirates in 2017. Since then, his career has taken him to exciting places. He currently plays for Burnley in England’s Premier League, where he is a favourite among the supporters. He is also a regular for Bafana Bafana. Aged only 24, Foster’s story is still being written. So far, it’s gone very well for him.

IOL Sport

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