Mamelodi Sundowns have officially cut ties with seven players, and the squad overhaul might not be over yet. The Tshwane giants are actively finalising their squad for the upcoming season following their return from the FIFA Club World Cup.
The club has already released Sifiso Ngobeni, Sipho Mbule, Lebohang Maboe, and Thabang Sibanyoni, all of whom spent last season out on loan. A source indicates that the Brazilians plan to continue this trend by offloading more loanees.
More loan returnees facing the exit door
Etiosa Ighodaro, Ismail Watenga, Siyanda Msani, Luvuyo Phewa, and Thembinkosi Lorch are also unlikely to feature for Sundowns in the new campaign. Having spent the previous season on loan, they are now expected to either leave permanently or be loaned out again.
Even players who were part of the senior squad last season are at risk. Thapelo Maseko, Matias Esquivel, Zuko Mdunyelwa, and Ntando Nkosi may leave to get more game time.
Esquivel, a South American attacker, looks likely to depart permanently. The club is reportedly eager to free up a foreign player slot. Meanwhile, Maseko, Mdunyelwa and Nkosi could go out on loan.
Cardoso targets a leaner squad
Head coach Miguel Cardoso aims to trim the squad, but he must strike a balance between quality and quantity as Sundowns compete on multiple fronts.
With the CAF Champions League and domestic dominance both on the agenda, the club needs depth, but not dead weight. “Cardoso wants to trim the squad,” a source confirmed, “but knows he must keep enough depth for the team to challenge on all fronts.”
New Sundowns signings coming
Sundowns are currently on a short break following their Club World Cup exploits, but the club is expected to unveil new signings later this month. As the reshuffle continues, fans can anticipate a refreshed squad with both new faces and strategic exits.
Who should Mamelodi Sundowns still release?
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