Club career
Mabena progressed through the Transnet School of Excellence, before being subject to strong interest from fellow South African sides Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates in 2022. [2] He chose to join the Sundowns, with teammate Relebohile Ratomo joining the Pirates, and was promoted to the Sundowns' under-19 team at the age of fifteen. [3]
On 14 March 2023, he was a shock inclusion in Rhulani Mokwena's squad for the DStv Premiership match against Royal AM. [3] With the score at 5–1, Mabena was brought on as a substitute for Themba Zwane, becoming the fifth youngest debutant ever in the South African top flight in the process. [4] Following the game, manager Mokwena compared Mabena to the late Gift Leremi, lauding his balance, ability to play with both feet, and his change of direction at speed. On the 27 of September 2023 Siyabonga Mabena became the youngest player to score in the Premier Soccer League at the age of 16 years 7 months and 9 days playing for Mamelodi Sundowns against Sekhukhune United.
Style of play
Following his debut game, manager Mokwena compared Mabena to the late Gift Leremi, lauding his balance, ability to play with both feet, and his change of direction at speed. [8] Mabena is seen as a very promising player he is known for his dribbling ability, chance creation, ability to progress the ball with flair, balance and skillfulness. Mabena has been recognized by the world with him being included in the 2024 English newspaper The Guardian's list of the best players born in 2007 worldwide.
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