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Barker Happy And Sad To See Adams Move To Sundowns

  • January 27, 2025
  • 3 min read
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Barker Happy And Sad To See Adams Move To Sundowns

Stellenbosch FC coach Steve Barker has acknowledged the bittersweet departure of star midfielder Jayden Adams to Mamelodi Sundowns.

While saddened to lose a key player, Barker understands the allure of playing for Sundowns, particularly with the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup.

Adams, a standout performer for Stellenbosch, was signed by Sundowns in the January transfer window on a lucrative three-year and half deal. This move comes as Sundowns strengthen their squad for the CAF Champions League quarterfinals and the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup in June.

Participation in the Club World Cup guarantees Sundowns a significant financial windfall, estimated at R900 million, enabling them to attract top talent.

“Unfortunately, I have got two answers – sad and happy,” said Barker when asked if he happy or sad to lose another star player at the club. 

“As a coach, when you lose quality players like Jayden, it’s never easy. So, we are in a competitive space point of view. 

“It is a loss for us, but at the same time we are very happy for him. He served the club for many seasons, the second highest capped player, and it was probably the right time for him to get a new challenge. 

“I believe the ceiling is very high for Jayden, we are happy for him to be able to go to the club like Sundowns and it increases his capacity and opportunities that provides like Club World Cup. 

“We are very happy for him.” 

Adams joins a list of key Stellenbosch players who have moved to larger clubs in recent seasons, including Iqraam Rayners to Sundowns, Deano van Rooyen to Orlando Pirates, Junior Mendieta to Sundowns, and Ashley du Preez and Zitha Kwinika to Kaizer Chiefs.

Barker emphasized that player development is a core principle for Stellenbosch FC. “It is one of the reasons we bought the club was to give opportunities to local players,” said Barker. 

“Having no professional team for over 100 years, to now have that, to see players like Ashley Du Preez, Jayden Adams, to see him also go, it is credit to the club in creating those opportunities. 

“We also feel we are doing well and very proud of is to continue replacing those players. Players like Thabo Khiba, it is now his opportunity to develop to a higher level.”  

Adams made his debut for Sundowns in their Nedbank Cup of 32 victory over Sibanye Golden Arrows on Saturday.

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Robin-Duke Madlala

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