Lunathi "Lulu" Mdatyulwa (born April 12, 1997) is a South African footballer who plays for Hout Bay United. He was born in Hout Bay and grew up in the township of Imizamo Yethu. Mdatyulwa speaks Xhosa and English.
Youth career
In 2007, Mdatyulwa had a successful trial with Ajax Cape Town and subsequently joined their Under 12 Academy team. After impressing in youth tournaments he caught the attention of numerous clubs, most notably Mamelodi Sundowns, who he elected to join in 2013.
Senior career
After a brief spell with Cape Town City F.C. and impressing for a young Ke Yona side, Mdatyulwa signed a three deal with Chippa United In January 2019, he joined Witbank Spurs on a two-year deal. The following season he signed for Richards Bay F.C. in the National First Division.
In 2021 Mdatyulwa joined his local side, Hout Bay United.
International career
In 2014, Mdatyulwa was called up to the South Africa U20 squad to face Malawi in a friendly
Style of play
Mdatyulwa plays as an attacking midfielder and is known for his skill, touch and creativity. In 2015 Mamelodi Sundowns coach Jan Melombo stated “Lunathi is an influential player. He controls the team which is a skill that is needed as a Midfielder. He is a visionary player and brings every team member into the game.“
Media
Mdatyulwa appears in Football Manager 2020, a football management simulation video game developed by Sports Interactive and published by Sega. He appears in each updated version up to and including Football Manager 2023 (officially abbreviated as FM23).