Mamelodi Sundowns DDC Star Gomolemo Kekana Gains International Recognition Amid Growing Interest

While Mamelodi Sundowns’ senior squad has become a fortress of established talent, there’s a rising star in the club’s DStv Diski Challenge (DDC) ranks who’s catching the eye of international clubs. Midfielder Gomolemo Kekana, who has yet to make his senior team debut, is reportedly drawing interest from a top Dutch club, further validating the excitement surrounding his development at the Brazilians.

A Bright Future for Kekana

Kekana, 18, has been a standout performer for Sundowns’ DDC side, impressing both domestically and on the international stage. His rise through the youth ranks has not gone unnoticed, with several sources confirming that European clubs are closely monitoring his progress.

According to an insider with knowledge of Sundowns’ internal affairs, a prominent Dutch club has already shown interest in the young midfielder. “There are several players from the DDC who have attracted interest from other clubs, whether locally or abroad. But what I can tell you is that there is a Dutch club that has enquired about Gomolemo. He has been doing very well, and it’s not surprising that there is this interest. His future looks great,” the source revealed.

The Potential Successor to Teboho Mokoena

Sundowns are not only aware of Kekana’s growing reputation but also consider him a key figure for the future. The club is reportedly preparing to offer him a senior team contract, seeing him as the natural successor to Teboho Mokoena, whose own impressive performances have sparked interest from European clubs. This alignment is significant, as Sundowns are keen to promote the best of their youth talent into the senior squad.

“He has been training with the senior team to get used to the environment, as they prepare him for his promotion with a lot of European interest in Teboho as well. But now there is Dutch interest in him, which makes things a bit complicated for the club,” the second insider explained to Soccer Laduma.

This indicates that Sundowns is not only focused on Kekana’s development but also on how to balance internal growth with the competitive pressure of overseas clubs seeking his signature.

National Recognition and All-Star Selection

Kekana’s skills have not just impressed at Sundowns but have earned him recognition at the national level as well. He has represented South Africa at both Under-17 and Under-20 levels, further solidifying his credentials as a player with significant promise. His inclusion in the Carling Black Label All-Star team last December — where they triumphed 3-0 over Magesi FC — was another indicator of his rising star status.

A Pivotal Moment for Sundowns and Kekana

As Sundowns continue to balance their plans for Kekana’s future with the growing external interest, the next steps for both the club and the player are crucial. Sundowns have always had a reputation for nurturing talent, and Kekana could very well be the next big name to emerge from their youth ranks.

With European clubs circling and a potential senior team contract on the horizon, Kekana’s next move could have a lasting impact on both his career and Sundowns’ ambitions of maintaining their dominance in South African football. The pressure will be on the club to either secure his services long-term or fend off the international interest to keep him at Chloorkop for the foreseeable future.

What’s Next for Kekana?

The next few months could determine the direction of Kekana’s career. If Sundowns can successfully integrate him into the first team, his development could lead to further opportunities at the international level. Alternatively, if a move abroad materializes, Kekana will have the chance to showcase his talents on the European stage.

As Sundowns continue to juggle their plans for the future, one thing is clear — Gomolemo Kekana is a name to watch in the world of football.