Man City star De Bruyne 'proud' to include Sundowns as first African team to play in KDB Cup

Europe is calling for Mamelodi Sundowns' under-15 youth team, who will represent South Africa in the Kevin de Bruyne Cup in June.

The competition, known as the KDB Cup and named after the Manchester City and Belgium star De Bruyne, has become a globally-recognised youth tournament since its inauguration in 2016. It will take place over two days in Belgium, with teams from Africa, South America and Europe vying for the ultimate prize.

"It's a proud moment for me to welcome Mamelodi Sundowns as the first African team to participate in the tournament," De Bruyne said in a statement.

"We are well aware of the success and values Mamelodi Sundowns stands for as a club, and I have no doubt their youth team will be a wonderful addition to the team roster.

"I'm so excited to meet the Sundowns team, and I can't wait to see our South African friends in June. Best of luck!"

Sundowns has close ties with Roc Nation Sports International, which also represents De Bruyne.

The Tshwane giants' under-15s will rub shoulders and test their football talents against Man City (England), Paris Saint-Germain (France), Barcelona (Spain), Real Madrid (Spain), Bayern Munich (Germany), RB Leipzig (Germany ) KAA Gent (Belgium), Club Brugge (Belgium), Odense Boldklub (Denmark) and Palmeiras (Brazil).

Several players such as Ilaix Moriba (RB Leipzig & Guinea), Jamal Musiala (Bayern Munich), Romeo Lavia (Southampton), Ansu Fati (Barcelona), Eric Garcia (Barcelona) and Noni Madueke (PSV Eindhoven) have all previously participated in the KDB Cup during their early years before breaking it into senior teams across Europe.

"Our club and supporters are very excited for our academy players," Sundowns chairman Tlhopie Motsepe said.

"As much as we know that this is a