Roc Nation sign City youngster Sifumba

ROC Nation Sports International have announced the acquisition of Cape Town City footballer Luphumlo ‘Kaka’ Sifumba.

The 16-year-old Sifumba made history last season when he became the youngest player to feature in the Diski

Challenge, which is widely regarded as the precursor to South African top flight football.

“We are excited to welcome ‘Kaka’ to the Roc Nation family. Kaka is an exciting attacking central midfielder with a gift for scoring goals. He is one of the most promising young talents on the African continent and we are proud to sign another exceptional

South African talent,” said Nathan Campbell, Roc Nation Sports International Global Director of Football Recruitment.

Sifumba was first scouted as a nineyear-old by City’s head of football development Grant Veitch, while Veitch was affiliated to Hellenic’s football academy. His exploits have also led to him having the opportunity to train

with the City first team.

The signing of Sifumba by Roc Nation forms part of their initiative to start recruiting sports stars in the early phase of their careers. In joining Roc Nation, he becomes the first South African footballer to be signed, and joins other South African sports stars such as rugby players Siya Kolisi, Cheslin Kolbe, Sbu Nkosi, cricketers Temba Bavuma and Lungi Ngidi as well as netball star Bongiwe Msomi.

Sifumba is still surprised by the news.

“When I met with representatives from Roc Nation, the first thing I said was ‘I can’t believe I am actually sitting here having this conversation’. It is such a proud moment for me and my family and I am so excited about what the future may hold,” Sifumba said.