Despite his blistering form this season, Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has revealed why Mamelodi Sundowns striker Cassius Mailula is not ready to make the step up to Europe yet.
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The 21-year-old is experiencing a breakout season of note.
With 14 goals and four assists in 22 matches for Sundowns this season, it is very little surprise that Mailula has been included in Broos' final squad to face Liberia in back-to-back AFCON qualifiers.
As is the case with most young players who excel, Mailula has been touted with a move to Europe; however, Broos has urged the local fraternity to exercise caution with the young striker.
"Honestly, I don't think he's ready for Europe now. I don't think Mailula is doing very good because it is his first season, last year he played one or two games and it was finished, you didn't see him," he told the media after his 23-man squad announcement.
"Now he's broken through, and you are telling me that he is ready to go to Europe, when I should advise him to stay one more year at Sundowns, playing [CAF] Champions League because it will be good for his development.
"Don't underestimate going to Europe.
"Certainly, for a striker, it's very difficult. Again, he has the potential, but don't take that decision too soon and I know everyone is raving over Mailula – be careful with that. It's his first season, he's doing well in the Champions League also. He's scored but it's only seven months in a team like Sundowns who is dominating every game, it's different. So let him take some more experience on a high level and with Sundowns he's always in the Champions League so let him stay another year, it will be good for him," he continued.
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