THE FUSE

Kaizer Chiefs and Bafana Bafana midfielder Mduduzi Shabalala has taken another significant step in his rapidly growing career after officially joining the PUMA South Africa football family.

The 22-year-old playmaker has been unveiled as one of the faces of the campaign for the newly launched PUMA ULTRA 7 football boot, further cementing his status as one of South African football’s brightest young stars.

Shabalala’s signing comes on the back of an impressive campaign that saw him establish himself as one of the Premier Soccer League’s most exciting attacking talents. His performances also earned him a senior Bafana Bafana debut in October 2025, marking another milestone in a career that continues to gather momentum.

PUMA South Africa believes the talented midfielder has all the qualities needed to become one of the country’s biggest football stars over the next decade.

“Mdu’s performances last season were impressive, and we believe that we are signing a player that will be in the forefront of South African football for many years to come, and who will drive on-pitch visibility of our ULTRA football boots,” said Tshepo Mashishi, PUMA South Africa Teamhead for Teamsports Marketing.

Mashishi added that the brand sees Shabalala playing an important role in the future of South African football.

“He is a player that has the talent to be a part of the South African national team and become one of the leaders when we are back on the world stage at the 2030 FIFA World Cup.”

Shabalala joins an elite group of footballers already representing PUMA in South Africa. The impressive roster includes Bafana Bafana stars Teboho Mokoena, Themba Zwane, Iqraam Rayners, Bathusi Aubaas, Patrick Maswanganyi, Thapelo Morena, Sailor Mudau, Malibongwe Khoza and fellow rising youngster Mfundo Vilakazi.

“My decision was based on how well PUMA’s values, vision, and commitment to athletes align with my own goals and journey as a footballer,” he said.

“I push myself every day to improve, compete at the highest level, and make an impact on and off the pitch. I believe my ambition, work ethic, and passion for the game align perfectly with the brand.”

As the new football season approaches, the attacking midfielder has set clear objectives for himself.

“I want to improve my consistency, contribute more goals and assists, and continue developing all aspects of my game to help the team succeed,” he said.

Supporters will also get their first glimpse of Shabalala in action wearing the new PUMA ULTRA 7 boots, a model specifically designed for speed and agility.

“It’s lightweight, comfortable, and built for speed, which suits my style of play perfectly,” he explained.

Known for his close control, creativity and ability to unlock defences, the ULTRA 7 appears to be a natural fit for the midfielder’s dynamic style of play.

Away from the pitch, Shabalala has also built a growing presence on social media, where he regularly shares training sessions, matchday experiences and personal moments with supporters.

“It’s a way for me to connect with supporters, inspire young players, and give people a glimpse into who I am beyond football,” he said.

The partnership marks another endorsement of Shabalala’s growing influence in South African football and highlights his commercial appeal as he continues to develop into one of the country’s most marketable young talents.

With a new season on the horizon, fresh ambitions, and the backing of one of world football’s leading sports brands, all eyes will be on Mduduzi Shabalala as he looks to elevate his game and continue his rise among South Africa’s football elite.