Rising Star Yanela Mbuthuma Joins Bafana Bafana Squad

Yanela Mbuthuma, a promising striker from Richards Bay FC, has been selected for the Bafana Bafana squad for upcoming friendlies against Mozambique and Tanzania. The 23-year-old forward has made significant strides since joining Richards Bay at the start of the 2022/2023 season, scoring 10 goals and providing eight assists in 83 matches across all competitions.

Mbuthuma expressed his surprise and gratitude upon receiving the national team call-up, stating, “I’m very happy that I have been given an opportunity and was called to the national team. I was very shocked when I got this opportunity because I wasn’t expecting it.”

Despite interest from top clubs like Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates, Mbuthuma recently committed his future to Richards Bay by signing a new five-year contract. He remains focused on personal development rather than potential transfers. “I don’t pay attention to that a lot because I play to entertain people,” he said. “For now, that’s not in my mind. I’m still okay at Richards Bay, so I can just prove myself even more.”

With his dedication to growth and performance on the field, Yanela Mbuthuma is emerging as one of South Africa’s most exciting football talents.