Richards Bay FC attacker, Yanela Mbuthuma, has addressed recent transfer speculation linking him with moves to Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates, as well as receiving a national team call-up.
The 23-year-old striker also reflected on his surprise inclusion in the Bafana Bafana squad for the upcoming international friendlies against Mozambique and Tanzania in June.
Mbuthuma, who joined Richards Bay at the start of the 2022/23 season, has quickly emerged as one of the PSL’s most promising young talents. Initially spotted by Richards Bay scouts at the inaugural Khabba Cup tournament in Umlazi in 2023, he’s since become a key figure for the Jomo Biyela-owned side.
To date, he’s made 83 appearances across all competitions, notching 10 goals and providing eight assists.
Speaking to FarPost, Mbuthuma admitted he was stunned by his national team call-up.
“I’m very happy that I have been given this opportunity and was called to the national team. I just want to score more goals so that I can progress even more and grow as a striker,” he said.
“I was very shocked when I got this opportunity because I wasn’t expecting it. When I first started playing football, I wasn’t even picturing myself at this level. So, I’m still shocked.”
Mbuthuma’s consistent performances have inevitably drawn interest from South Africa’s biggest clubs, with both Chiefs and Pirates reportedly enquiring about his availability.
However, he recently signed a new five-year deal with Richards Bay, making any potential move likely to involve a significant transfer fee.
Despite the speculation, Mbuthuma remains focused on his development at Richards Bay.
“I pay little attention to the transfer rumours. My priority is to keep growing as a player here at Richards Bay.”