Kaizer Chiefs could have another academy gem knocking on the door of the first team, with teenage sensation Steven Mendes attracting plenty of attention after his outstanding performances for South Africa’s U20 side.
The 18-year-old has emerged as one of the exciting prospects in the Amakhosi development system, and his recent exploits have strengthened calls for him to train with the senior squad.
Khumalo backs Chiefs wonderkid Mendes
Mendes was one of the standout performers at the recent COSAFA U20 tournament in Maputo, Mozambique, where he finished as the competition’s Golden Boot winner.
Although primarily a midfielder, Mendes was deployed as a striker during the tournament — and the tactical switch paid off handsomely.
The youngster, who has earned the nickname ‘Stevie G’ from some of his teammates, has also impressed at club level under DDC coach Vela Khumalo.
Khumalo believes Mendes has the talent and maturity required to eventually make the jump to the senior team.
“He’s a special player, a top player. He’s going to make it big. The boy has grown in stature and is very talented.”
The Chiefs development coach also suggested that it could only be a matter of time before Mendes is brought into the senior-team environment.
“It’s just a matter of time. He will also be knocking or being identified by the coaches to remain in the first team, in and out, train with the first team and all of that.”
For Chiefs supporters, that will be an exciting prospect as the club continues to look towards its academy for the next generation of first-team stars.
Chiefs injury update ahead of Stellenbosch
Mendes’ potential promotion comes at an interesting time for Kaizer Chiefs, with the senior squad currently dealing with several injury concerns.
There have, however, been encouraging developments on the fitness front.
Striker Flavio Silva has returned to training, while Khanyisa Mayo has recovered from a hernia operation and is also back in contention.
Young winger Langelihle Phili is another player edging closer to a return after suffering a serious ankle injury during training in late August.
Phili could potentially return for Chiefs’ home Betway Premiership clash against Stellenbosch on Tuesday, 13 October, with kick-off scheduled for 19:30 at FNB Stadium.
Could ‘Stevie G’ be the next Chiefs academy breakthrough?
Mendes still has plenty of development ahead of him, but his Golden Boot-winning campaign and Khumalo’s glowing assessment have put his name firmly on the radar.
If he continues to progress at his current rate, the next step could be an opportunity to train alongside Chiefs’ senior stars.
For Amakhosi fans, the question is simple: could Steven Mendes be the club’s next academy sensation?
