South African football side Mamelodi Sundowns’ youth team will participate in the 2023 KDB Cup in Belgium.
In an announcement by Roc Nation Sports on Thursday, February 9, it was noted that Mamelodi Sundown would, for the first time, join Under-15 counterparts such as Manchester City, Paris Saint-Germain, FC Barcelona, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich.
The announcement was made via a video with Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne, surprising the players.
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"It's a proud moment for me to welcome Mamelodi Sundowns as the first African team to participate in the tournament. We are well aware of the success and values Mamelodi Sundowns stands for as a club, and I have no doubt their youth team will be a wonderful addition to the team roster.
“I'm so excited to meet the Sundowns team, and can't wait to see our South African friends in June. Best of luck!” De Bruyne stated.
Mamelodi Sundowns is managed by Roc Nation Sports International, the world-renowned sports agency that represents Kevin De Bruyne.
The tournament has been associated with De Bruyne's since the inaugural edition in 2016.
Widely regarded as one of Europe's most prestigious youth tournaments, Mamelodi Sundowns will participate in the sixth edition set to take place on June 10 and 11, in Belgium.
For the first time in the tournament's history, this year's edition will have representation from across three continents, including South America, Europe and Africa.
After the announcement, Mamelodi Sundowns chairman Tlhopie Motsepe expressed the joy of the club and its fans in participating in the tournament.
Motsepe noted that the opportunity would help the youth team get to express their playing style abroad.
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