In this week's Friday Debate, the big focus is on Thapelo Maseko, who looks set to join Mamelodi Sundowns after offers from Belgian club Westerlo were turned down by SuperSport United.
Soccer Laduma got in touch with three individuals to get their thoughts on what move would best suit the 19-year-old winger and it seems more are leaning towards him making a move abroad.
Oupa Baloyi - Sundowns supporter
I think Sundowns have a lot of players who are equally as good as he is, so I think it would be good to consider the offers from overseas. That's where he will be seen by big clubs in fancy leagues in Europe. It's a good gateway for players to be signed. Leagues such as the Belgian Pro League give a good opportunity for players to get signed in bigger leagues. He is still young and I think he would make it and grow in Europe, instead of him joining Sundowns. I am a Mamelodi Sundowns supporter, but if I were his advisor or mentor, I would not advise him to join Sundowns because there are a lot of players there. But that's up to him and his aspirations. If he wants to win leagues and play in the CAF Champions League, then Sundowns is the right team for him to join. He would also get an opportunity to be coached by a wonderful coach like Rulani (Mokwena). But honestly, I'd say he should consider the offer overseas. I've seen a lot of good players who joined Sundowns before and they didn't make it. So, it would be better for him to join the team in Europe. That's my thought.
John Tlale - former Sundowns goalkeeper
It was a great opportunity for him to go overseas. If the team in Belgium wanted to sign him, then I think that would have worked for him. Every player wants to play overseas and if he were to move to Belgium, then it would be easier for him to get into the national team. It would put him on the market because he would play in the national team and other top teams in Europe would be able to see him, like the ones which play in the (UEFA) Champions League. I think the best move for him would be Europe because there is no guarantee that he will be a regular at Sundowns. The competition at Sundowns, truly speaking, is tight. They have been signing players and they have experienced players who are used to play regularly, whereas Maseko is still trying to make a name for himself. I think the best option would be Belgium, especially because it opens the door for the national team. Let's be honest, every player wants to play abroad.
Phetso Maphanga - former Pirates Swallows player
For me, this one is simple. If it was me and there was age on my side, I would go overseas. You can see he is a quality player, so you go overseas and play there. Look at where Lyle Foster is playing now. He is playing in the (English) Premier League, so the possibilities are there for him to play in a league as big as that one. I don't see why he would go to Sundowns rather than going overseas. For me, it's simple. You go overseas and play there. Age is still on his side.
