Orlando Pirates’ Jacob Serman, Khumoetsile Van Schalkwyk and Ofentse Moeletsi share a rather special nickname. It is from none other than the greatest ever football player Lionel Messi.

To make it more exciting, Serman, Van Schalkwyk and Moeletsi play for different dvisions within Buccaneers youth.

THREE ORLANDO PIRATES YOUNGSTERS NICKNAMED MESSI

Jacob Serman

Formerly with SuperSport United, Serman is an exciting attacking midfielder and winger who has also turned out for rivals Kaizer Chiefs.

The left-footed youngster won multiple Under-13 and Under-14 Gauteng Development League titles before making the high-profile move to their Soweto rivals.

A elegant technician has reportedly trained with the club’s DStv Diski Challenge squad.

Khumoetsile Van Schalkwyk

Van Schalkwyk, meanwhile, is a versatile winger capable of playing on either flank. Capable of being the next Relebohile Mofokeng, he is originally from Stella, he developed through regional sides including Masokolara FC, SACOV FC and Sol Plaatje FC before joining the North West University Soccer Institute.

Wearing the number 23 shirt, Van Schalkwyk has earned recognition for his football intelligence and long-range shooting ability. He is part of the Pirates DStv Diski Challenge team.

Ofentse Moeletsi

Moeletsi completes the trio. The 21-year-old attacker first attracted attention while playing for Highlands Park’s Under-19 team, where his ability to beat defenders on either wing caught the eye.

He later featured in the DStv Diski Challenge setup at Sekhukhune United before moving to Orlando Pirates. Moeletsi has featured in the club’s ABC Motsepe League and DStv Diski Challenge structures.

NEXT GENERATION OF TALENT

The nickname Messi is associated with exceptional dribbling, creativity and football intelligence, qualities that have helped make Lionel Messi one of the greatest players of his generation.

Although the nickname alone does not guarantee success, Serman, Van Schalkwyk and Moeletsi have opportunities to develop their talents within one of South Africa’s biggest football clubs.