Former Orlando Pirates midfielder Fortune Makaringe has opened up about the unique connection he has built with Cape Town City FC’s emerging talent, Emile Witbooi.
The 32-year-old spoke warmly of the teenager, emphasizing both his admiration and belief in Witbooi’s immense potential.
At just 17, Witbooi has already earned a reputation as one of South Africa’s most gifted talents—a player whose dazzling ability has attracted attention from top clubs both locally and abroad.
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According to reports, English Premier League giants Chelsea, famed for nurturing young talent, are also keeping a watchful eye on his development.
Speaking to African football journalist Velile Mnyandu, Makaringe was effusive in his praise for his former teammate:
“He’s [Witbooi] just a marvel to watch and to play alongside. He’s always willing to learn. I’m a very huge fan of that young kid, he knows almost each and every game, after playing, I’ll send him a text or he’ll send me a text.”
The former Maritzburg United talisman specifically praised Witbooi’s attacking mentality, drawing parallels to his own early career: “One thing about him, he’s fearless and I love kids like that. When I turned pro, I was also a winger. I love wingers who take on people.”
The Hunt for the “Right Team”
Makaringe’s professional outlook shifted drastically following Cape Town City’s relegation from the Betway Premiership. As the club undertook a significant squad overhaul, Makaringe was among the key players released and is now actively seeking a new club.
Despite the setback, the seasoned midfielder stressed that his motivation remains exceptionally high, dedicating himself to maintaining peak fitness:
“I’m definitely pushing. Day in, day out. Those that are close to me, will tell you. They even ask me, ‘Aren’t you getting tired of training alone?’
I’m definitely pushing to be back in the field, me and the pitch miss one another.”
When asked by Mnyandu about the criteria for his next destination—the “right team”— Makaringe emphasized the competitive environment above all else:
“The goal should be to always be competitive. For me, getting into the right team with the right resources to compete.”
He added his belief in mutual alignment: “I think when the visions align, the right team will also find me, as much as I’m looking for the right team.”