Campbell Joins Club Brugge
SuperSport United FC and Belgian champions Club Brugge KV have agreed to a permanent transfer for winger Shandre Campbell. The transfer fee remains undisclosed.
Campbell, an 18-year-old talent, has been with SuperSport United since joining their Soccer Schools program at age 11. He progressed through the youth ranks, winning accolades like the u12 VW Cup (Player of the Tournament), GDL u13 and u15 league trophies, and promotion to the DStv Diski Challenge team in 2022.
The young winger played a vital role in leading Matsatsantsa to their first-ever DDC league title in the 2022/23 season. He notched an impressive 16 goals and earned the club’s DDC Player of the Year award.
Head coach Gavin Hunt immediately promoted Campbell to the first team. The youngster debuted against Richards Bay in the PSL, registering two assists. He went on to play 24 games, scoring 5 goals and contributing 6 assists throughout the season. These performances earned him nominations for both the DStv Premiership Young Player of the Year and Nedbank Player of the Year awards.
SuperSport chairman Khulu Sibiya: “We are incredibly proud to have developed a talented young man like Shandre. He thoroughly deserves this opportunity, and we wish him all the best. Go out there, play your game, and be yourself. We are behind you every step of the way.”
SuperSport CEO Stanley Matthews: “Shandre is a homegrown talent we’ve nurtured since he was 11. His humility, discipline, and consistent hard work are commendable. This opportunity at Club Brugge allows him to play in a world-class environment alongside and against Europe’s finest. We believe Shandre will flourish and become a shining star for South Africa in the coming decade.”
Campbell said: “Firstly, I want to thank Coach Gavin Hunt for his unwavering faith and trust in me throughout the season. I’m privileged to have worked with all the outstanding coaches and staff at SuperSport United who guided me from a young age. Thanks to the Club Board and management for taking such good care of me and the academy players.
“Huge gratitude to my teammates, without whom this move wouldn’t be possible. A special thanks to Mr. Stan Matthews for always believing in me and supporting my goals. SuperSport United has been my home since joining their soccer schools, and this isn’t goodbye, but hopefully the beginning of a remarkable future career that makes you all proud.
“To the entire academy staff, my second family, especially the house fathers, aunties, and drivers who looked after us, thank you. Lastly, immense gratitude to my parents and the Almighty for giving me this chance to live my dream. My blood will always be blue. Forever SuperSport United.”