Pule and Mlambo have been wearing the adidas kit for some time, thanks to the company’s sponsorship of AmaBhakaBhaka. However, the new deal will see them featuring as stars of adidas campaigns in the local market. Globally, they join a roster that includes Lionel Messi, Paul Pogba and Mohammed Salah.

Bob Maphosa, sports marketing manager at adidas Africa, says being chosen as an adidas ambassador was as much a reflection of a how a player carries himself off the field as his on-field performance.

Orlando Pirates midfielder Xolani Mlambo

"We’ve got close to 1.5 million registered football players in South Africa who are all talented in their own right. Making the cut in the PSL shows an added level of discipline, dedication and commitment to the game. But what we are looking for as a brand are players who stand out both on and off the field — and Vincent and Xola live the brand to the fullest," says Maphosa.

"adidas is the number one football brand in the world, and the best players the world over are proud to be associated with us," Maphosa adds.

Maphosa says, "Through sport, we have the power to change lives, particularly on our continent. Our partnership with athletes like Vincent and Xola play a strong role in taking our message around the transformative power of sport to millions of young South Africans."

New face of adidas Vincent Pule

For more information, visit www.adidas.co.za. You can also follow adidas on Facebook or on Twitter.