Young South African stars making waves in England’s football academies
Manchester United's Elyh Harrison, who is eligible to play for Bafana Bafana through his South African mother, saves a penalty during an EFL Trophy match against Stockport County in August 2023..
Image: Mike Morese/MI News/NurPhoto via AFP
The name Pano Koumpounis is increasingly being noticed in England’s academy scene as the South African teenager continues to impress.
The 16-year-old is part of a growing wave of young South Africans making their mark abroad, showcasing the country’s rising talent at some of Europe’s most prestigious football academies.
From a strong foundation in local youth football to competing against some of the best prospects in England, Koumpounis embodies the ambition and adaptability required to succeed at the highest level.
His performances have already caught the attention of scouts and coaches alike, suggesting he could become one of South Africa’s next breakout stars.
Who is Pano Koumpounis?
The 16-year-old Koumpounis is a versatile defender capable of performing in multiple positions across the back line and in midfield. He began his football journey in the south of Johannesburg before moving to England in 2022 to advance his development. Since then, he has secured a scholarship with the Langley Football Academy, where he balances both education and football.
Other South Africans Turning Heads
Chelsea have signed 13-year-old South African football prodigy Camden Schaper for a record R17 million fee, marking him as the most expensive signing ever for a player of his age.
Image: Camden Schaper on Instagram
Camden is a name familiar to many South African football fans. The teenage prodigy from Benoni caught attention during a bidding war between top English clubs, including Chelsea, Manchester City, and Arsenal. Chelsea ultimately won the race to sign the former SuperSport United youth star, highlighting his potential and promise.
Thorsten “Spike” Brits (Manchester City)
Promoted earlier this year to Manchester City’s reserve team, Thorsten is a modern, intelligent goalkeeper known for his commanding presence. Last year, he became the most expensive academy player signing in English history. Born in England to South African parents from the Eastern Cape, the now 18-year-old has already made a name for himself in youth football circles.
Samual Archer (Tottenham Hotspur)
Another English-born talent eligible for South Africa, Samual is turning heads as a goalkeeper in Tottenham Hotspur’s reserve team. With a South African mother, he has expressed a strong desire to represent Bafana Bafana at international level, adding to the growing list of young South Africans making an impact abroad.
Elyh Harrison (Manchester United)
Elyh is a modern, athletic goalkeeper who has impressed coaches at Carrington. Last season, he was included on the first-team bench after Ruben Amorim’s appointment as head coach. This season, he continues his development on loan at Shrewsbury, where he has already made seven appearances across all competitions.
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