‘My Phone Is Ringing Left, Right, And Center’: Phili’s Father
Patrick Phili, the father of Stellenbosch sensation Langelihle Phili, says he does not want his son to join another Betway Premiership club, preferring instead a move abroad.
The 21-year-old winger has been heavily linked with a big-money transfer to Kaizer Chiefs over the past few days. Arch-rivals Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns are also credited with a distant interest, given both powerhouses have consistently raided the Cape Winelands side for top talent in recent seasons.
Phili, who graduated to the first team in 2024, remains under contract with Stellenbosch until June 2027. If the club fails to cash in during the current transfer window, they face the significant risk of losing him for free at the end of next season.
The dynamic forward is fresh off a standout campaign under Gavin Hunt, netting nine goals in 39 appearances across all competitions.
His explosive form helped him sweep the major honors at the year-end club awards, capping off his finest season in the top flight.
“I don’t wish for him to remain in South Africa after Stellenbosch,” Patrick told Sportswire.
“I know there is a lot of noise out there because my phone has been ringing left, right, and center. I previously told those interested clubs that they must wait until the season concludes, and only then will we make a decision.”
When pressed on whether this would be his son’s final chapter in the Western Cape, Patrick remained non-committal.
“I’m not entirely sure,” he admitted.
“Stellenbosch might table an improved contract that convinces him to stay. It’s not that I make decisions on his behalf; we sit down and discuss everything together. I always give him the space to think things through properly. Remember, he is an adult capable of independent thought. But whenever he is unsure about something, he calls me and says, ‘Dad, I need advice here, let’s talk’.”
A proud product of the AmaZulu FC academy, Phili has racked up 72 career appearances for Stellies, registering 11 goals and two assists.
With the domestic transfer window now in full swing, it remains to be seen whether the highly rated winger will line up for Stellenbosch when the new season kicks off.
