Cape Town City target Europe move for Emile Witbooi despite Pirates and Sundowns interest

Cape Town City chairman John Comitis has poured cold water on speculation linking highly rated teenager Emile Witbooi with a move to either Orlando Pirates or Mamelodi Sundowns, revealing that the club’s priority is to secure an overseas opportunity for the talented youngster rather than keeping him in South African football.

Witbooi has become one of the most talked-about young prospects in the country, attracting significant interest from some of the Premier Soccer League’s biggest clubs. Both Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns have repeatedly been mentioned as potential destinations for the gifted attacker, with many expecting the race for his signature to intensify in the coming months.

However, Comitis has now indicated that Cape Town City’s vision for the player’s future lies beyond South Africa’s borders, with the club determined to ensure that Witbooi’s development continues at the highest possible level.

Speaking on Metro FM, the Cape Town City boss made it clear that negotiations with Pirates or Sundowns are not currently the club’s preferred route.

“I don’t think that’s where we’re going to get stuck with either Pirates or Sundowns,” Comitis said.

His comments suggest that while the club remains open to discussions with local suitors, the main focus is on identifying opportunities that could provide the teenager with a clearer pathway to elite-level football.

Comitis further stressed that concluding a deal is rarely the difficult part. Instead, he believes the crucial consideration is whether a move would genuinely benefit the player’s growth and long-term career prospects.

“I will always find a way to make a deal happen. I don’t think that’s the issue here.

“I think it’s a case of – are they wanting the player now? For him to go there and not play is not the right thing in my opinion. He’s got to go there and play.”

The veteran football administrator emphasized that regular game time remains a non-negotiable factor in any decision concerning Witbooi’s future. According to Comitis, simply joining a high-profile club is not enough if it does not come with meaningful opportunities on the pitch.

His stance reflects a growing trend among clubs and player representatives who believe that young talents must prioritize development and playing opportunities over the prestige associated with a particular team.

In a major revelation, Comitis disclosed that German Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich have already extended an invitation to Witbooi, opening the door to what could become a significant opportunity for the youngster.

The possibility of engaging with one of Europe’s most successful clubs highlights the level of interest Witbooi is generating beyond South Africa and further underlines why Cape Town City are exploring international options.

“We’ve got an invitation for him to go to Bayern Munich which we’re now considering, only just to keep him relevant for his own good to see which level he has to be reaching,” Comitis added.

The invitation is not necessarily an indication of an immediate transfer, but it presents an opportunity for the young player to experience one of world football’s most demanding environments and gain valuable insight into the standards required to compete at the highest level.

For Witbooi, the attention from Bayern Munich serves as further recognition of his immense potential. The youngster has long been regarded as one of South Africa’s brightest prospects, with his technical ability, confidence on the ball and maturity drawing praise from coaches, scouts and football observers alike.

Cape Town City have built a reputation for developing young talent and providing emerging players with opportunities to showcase their abilities. As a result, the club is expected to take a cautious and strategic approach regarding Witbooi’s next career move.

While speculation linking him to Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns is unlikely to disappear anytime soon, Comitis’ latest comments make it clear that the club’s preference is to explore international pathways that could maximize the youngster’s potential.

With Bayern Munich now entering the conversation, the future of one of South Africa’s most exciting football talents has become even more intriguing. The coming months could prove pivotal as Cape Town City weigh up the best possible destination for a player many believe has the ability to make a significant impact on the global stage.