By
United Kingdom-based women's football agent Chris Atkins has revealed to SABC Sport that moves for University of Western Cape trio Bongeka Gamede, Sibulele Holweni and Noxolo Cesane to Europe are next on the cards.
This follows Atkins securing a double deal for twins Thubelihle and Sphumelele Shamase, who recently signed for Lithuanian outfit FC Gintra.
With the TMJ talent manager having also taken the likes of Linda Motlhalo,
''We have Bongeka, Sibulele and Noxolo. Those three from UWC, in terms of being national team regulars and being more mature over the Shamase's, they are definitely on the lookout for opportunities coming forth,'' said Atkins.
Cesane, twin sister to Sinoxolo – who is currently with Mazatlan Femenil in Mexico, alongside Banyana Banyana teammate Hildah Magaia, already had a taste of football abroad, with Stade de Reims in France and FC Tigres in Mexico.
However, Atkins argues it's expected that South African players would initially struggle with the demands of the professional game beyond local shores, with finding suitors for South African players still relatively easy.
''It is not difficult to place them, I think the challenge comes in choosing the right development path for them. It becomes a struggle if you go too big too soon,'' added Atkins.
Though stars such as Thembi Kgatlana and Jermaine Seoposenwe are now household names in the international women's game, the FIFA-licensed agent says even fertile ground comes with its own challenges and expectations – like for the Shamase twins.
''It took those kinds of national team players I have mentioned to find their feet as well. I think in this case it is not going to be as challenging to get game time for them but the experience will come with its own challenges,'' he concluded.
With Banyana catching global eyeballs with their 2022 Women's Africa Cup of Nations triumph and recent showing at the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup, Atkins is particularly passionate about opening doors for South African female footballers abroad.
