Sundowns recently sealed the deal, securing Philander’s services right under the noses of local Mother City clubs.
The versatile 18-year-old left-footer is doing his matric this year but has been making waves on the soccer field, especially since he joined up with Areshaat Daniels at FN Rangers.
Philander's agent Jerome McCarthy confirmed the signing to our website: “Giovanni signed a two-year deal with an option.
“He impressed during his trial stint with Sundowns during the school holidays. We’re all extremely happy for him and his family. I wish him everything of the best and I’m confident he’ll make us all proud."
According to Giovanni’s father, Colin, his son is reaping the rewards for his sacrifices.
“This is his big passion and we happy for him,” he said. “He always said that he was going to make it and we believed and supported him.
"Things didn’t always looked rosy and it was an uphill battle and a difficult road for him."