Langelihle Phili explains why he left AmaZulu for Stellenbosch FC

The youngster introduced himself to South African top flight football with a debut goal in a CAF Confederations Cup on Saturday against Nsingizini Hotspurs. 

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He joined Usuthu's junior side in 2018 until last year. Speaking exclusively with Ukhozi FM on Monday. He explained his reasons to move away from Durban and how his parents saved him from the township lifestyle.

''The reason I left AmaZulu is because my contract ended last year, but I played a tournament with them, the Engen tournament. My Manager contacted me to say there's an opportunity for me in Cape Town. I spoke to my parents about it and they said I should go and test myself at a different club in a different Province, I then went to Cape Town and signed with Stellenbosch,'' said Phili.

Phili spent five years at Usuthu, has shared his experience and expressed his gratitude to the club for the contribution to his growth in football, preparing him for any challenges in his career. He said AmaZulu FC took him from nowhere.

''I played from 2019 and left last year,  but I learnt a lot there and I can say they made me who I am today. They opened my eyes in terms of being a professional footballer, they have helped me a lot,'' added Phili.

Langelihle joins a list of many youngsters who left KwaZulu-Natal for other Provinces at a very young age. He feels the biggest challenge in KZN is the lack of belief in youngsters, unlike coach Steve Barker who knows how to manage young players and give them opportunities. Which made him choose to join Stellenbosch for the sake of growth.

''Obviously every team has their own style of play. What I have noticed with coach Steve is that he believes in youngsters, he would guide you and take care of you on and off the field. Then it is up to you in terms of how you use that opportunity,'' he concluded.

Changing Provinces can be a huge challenge for any human being, Langelihle has shared how his life from leaving Usuthu to scoring his debut goal for Stellenbosch at his hometown in front of his parents. He said sometimes taking a risk gives you huge rewards.

Langelihle Phili has already made a huge introduction in the PSL, next task is the MTN8 semi-final clashes against Mamelodi Sundowns. The league begins in September. He has shared his ambitions for the season,’and stated that he’s targeting young players of the season.