Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Gomolemo Kekana has spoken about his limited playing time at the club, admitting that the situation has brought some frustration. The 20-year-old from Zebediela was promoted to the senior team ahead of the 2025/26 season after strong performances for South Africa’s youth sides.

Kekana formed part of the Amajita squad that won the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and also represented the country at the FIFA U20 World Cup. Despite those achievements, he has found it difficult to break into Miguel Cardoso’s first team. Competition for places at Chloorkop remains high, and the youngster has seen only limited opportunities so far this season.

Reports earlier in the year indicated that Kekana had turned down a new contract offer from Sundowns. His agent, Basia Michaels of QT Sports, said the proposed terms did not reflect the player’s value at this stage of his career. While the midfielder’s camp has made it clear they would prefer an improved deal so that he can stay at the club, the situation has added further attention to his lack of regular game-time.

Speaking to journalists at the University of Pretoria this week, Kekana acknowledged the challenges at club level but stressed that he remains focused on the bigger picture. “There could be frustrations here and there but you just have to focus on what you want and I’m glad to be here to represent my country which is very important for me,” he said. He added that it is always a pleasure and a privilege to play for the national team and thanked the coaches and staff for their belief in him.

The midfielder is currently with the South Africa Under-23 side as they prepare for the second-round first leg of their Africa Cup of Nations and Olympic Games qualifiers against Madagascar. The match takes place on Saturday afternoon at Lucas Moripe Stadium. Kekana praised the unity in the U23 squad, noting that many of the players came through together from the U20 level in 2024. He said the group has strong relationships and believes they can achieve good things for the future.

Despite the limited minutes at Sundowns, Kekana has made it clear that his commitment to the national team has not been affected. For now, the young midfielder is concentrating on doing well for his country while the situation at club level continues to unfold.

Source: https://x.com/KickOffMagazine/status/2121325939455844514?s=19