Two prominent local football pundits, Kavii Vezemburuka and Isack Hamata, have strongly backed the N$75 million price tag placed on Peter Shalulile by his club Mamelodi Sundowns. 

They claim that his achievements and contributions on and off the field make him more than worthy of such a valuation.

Sundowns, one of South Africa’s most successful football clubs, recently set a staggering N$75 million asking price for Shalulile.

The player has reportedly attracted interest from clubs in the Middle East and North Africa. 

This could arguably be the first time a player in the South African Premiership (PSL) is being sold for this price.

This valuation is a significant jump from the N$30 million Sundowns paid for the Namibian international in 2020 from Highlands Park.

This is proof of Shalulile’s growth, and the immense value he has brought to the club over the years.

He has earned the prestigious PSL Golden Boot award twice, cementing his reputation as one of the continent’s top strikers.

His contract runs until June 2025, with an option for a further two years.

 However, this season, Shalulile has faced some challenges in front of goal.

He struggled to replicate the prolific form that made him a household name in the PSL.

Despite this brief dip in form, Vezemburuka argues that the price tag is entirely justified.

 This is considering Shalulile’s impressive track record, and his immense value to Sundowns. 

“It’s reasonable when you consider Shalulile’s consistent goal-scoring record, his work rate, and his ability to perform in high-pressure situations. He has delivered on the continental stage, too, including his recent contribution in the Caf Champions League, where he scored last weekend,” he said.

Vezemburuka added that player valuations are not solely based on their performance on the pitch, but also include factors like marketability and demand. 

“Shalulile is not just a goal-scorer for Sundowns, but also for his national team. He’s a leader on and off the field. He is a reliable performer, which justifies the amount Sundowns are asking for him. 

“Plus, setting such a high price could also be a strategic move by the club to ward off suitors, and ensure they hold on to their star player,” he reasoned.

Hamata echoes similar sentiments that the player’s worth is not only based on his footballing ability, but also on his leadership qualities and professionalism. 

“When you take a closer look at Shalulile’s contributions, both on and off the field, it’s clear that this valuation is well-deserved,” he remarked.

“His goalscoring abilities, both in the PSL and on the international stage with Namibia, have made him a major force in African football. Despite his current goal drought, he is still a proven match-winner. 

“We saw his impact in the last Champions League match when he came off the bench, scored the equaliser, and forced an own goal, which ultimately helped Sundowns win 2-1,” he said.

Beyond his technical skills, Hamata highlights Shalulile’s professionalism and work ethic as key factors that make him valuable. 

“Shalulile is not just a great player. He’s also a role model for young footballers. His dedication and leadership on and off the field are what set him apart. These qualities make him an invaluable asset to any team,” he stated.

In the modern football market, where transfer fees for top players often reach astronomical figures, Shalulile’s valuation is not out of place. 

“It reflects his status as one of the best players in Africa,” Hamata asserted.

 “His potential to make a significant impact at any club in the world is enormous,” he added.

Sundowns’ decision to place such a high price on Shalulile not only emphasises his importance to the team but also serves as a statement of the club’s ambition. 

“By setting this price, Sundowns are showing their intent to retain their key players, and continue competing at the highest level,” said Hamata.

Ultimately, while the final transfer fee will depend on negotiations between clubs, both pundits agree that Shalulile is worth every penny of his N$75 million price tag. 

“If it were up to me, I would have set it at N$100 million,” Hamata asserted.

 -lmupetami@nepc.com.na