Jaedin Rhodes's European move highlights Cape Town City's talent pathway

Jaedin Rhodes's move to Europe shows Cape Town City FC's role in developing top South African talent. The 23-year-old, who left the club for Austrian Bundesliga side SV Ried in June, is one of four players from a high-profile 2024 magazine feature now plying their trade on the continent.

Rhodes signed a contract with SV Ried that runs until 2028, with an option for a further year. His transfer came after he was featured alongside four other teenage prospects on the cover of GQ South Africa's Success Issue in August 2024, a project done with the Premier Soccer League that focused on future icons of the game.

Paths diverge after GQ spotlight

Two years on, the career trajectories of those five players highlight the changing landscape for South African footballers. While Mfundo Vilakazi has cemented his place at Kaizer Chiefs, scoring in a recent win, the other four have secured moves to European clubs.

Relebohile Mofokeng helped Orlando Pirates to a domestic treble in the 2025/26 season and played for Bafana Bafana at the 2026 FIFA World Cup before his transfer to Belgian club Royale Union Saint-Gilloise was confirmed on July 1. Thapelo Maseko, whose World Cup winner against South Korea helped the national team reach its first-ever knockout stage, moved to FC Copenhagen in August and recently scored twice on his first start for the Danish side.

Shandre Campbell, who progressed through Club Brugge's system, made 11 top-flight appearances there last season before joining KV Kortrijk on a deal until 2030 in July.

City's current form

Back in South Africa, Cape Town City are building their own momentum in the First Division. The team sits fifth in the table with seven points from four matches, following a 2-0 away victory over Hope FC on September 13. Their recent form shows two wins, a draw, and a loss from the last four outings.

Fans can track the club's progress in the standings and view the full fixtures list for the season ahead. The squad, will look to close a five-point gap to leaders Magesi as the campaign continues.