Sundowns Coach Cardoso Provides Update on Bafana Star’s Future Amid Transfer Rumours
- Mamelodi Sundowns manager Miguel Cardoso has given important information about a Bafana Bafana star's future as the club
- The former Esperance of Tunisia head coach maintains his role as the manager of the club rather than meddling in off-field issues
- He also explained why he always wants his players to stay motivated every season
Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has provided a crucial update about Thapelo Maseko amid talks that the Bafana Bafana star is unsettled at the Premier Soccer League giants.
Source: Getty Images
The South African international has been linked with a move away from the Brazilians this summer after finding it hard to break into Cardoso's starting line-up since last season.
The 21-year-old recently took to his official Instagram page to imply that he “felt unseen” and his passion for the game was “chipping away”.
The heartfelt message from the South African winger came after making two substitute appearances for Downs and also playing a little part in Masandawana's defeat against Orlando Pirates in the MTN8 semi-final.
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Cardoso speaks on Maseko's future
Despite speculation about Maseko's future at Sundowns, Cardoso has insisted that the Bafana Bafana forward would stay at the club when the transfer window closes this summer.
"Of course, he'll still be with us once the window shuts. Why wouldn't he be?" Cardoso said when asked about Maseko following the match against Pirates.
"He's a Mamelodi Sundowns player and very much part of the squad. From what I see within the club, there's no indication that anyone wants to move him on."
The Portuguese tactician went on to confirm how Maseko is putting in so much work in training as he takes up Lucas Ribeiro's place after the South American forward reported the PSL giants to FIFA.
"He's putting in the work. Naturally, with someone like Lucas Ribeiro unavailable on the right, where Maseko is also comfortable, it opens up opportunities for others in those areas. He's clearly pushing to earn his place," he added.
"I want all my players to stay motivated. When I give them chances, it's not just about filling gaps, it's to show them they're integral to the team’s structure."
Source: Getty Images
The Sundowns boss emphasised the importance of keeping his players motivated, stating that giving them opportunities is a way to show they are integral to the team.
"Naturally, I want my players to stay motivated, and giving them opportunities is part of that; it reinforces that they're valued and part of the team's core," he concluded.
"Everyone in the squad matters; there’s no one we don’t count on. Any decisions made within the club will always consider both the player's best interests and those of the club."
Maseko would be hoping to play some part when Sundowns face Kaizer Chiefs at the FNB Stadium on Wednesday, August 27, 2025.
Sundowns drop cryptic message over Ribeiro's case
Briefly News also reported that Mamelodi Sundowns dropped a cryptic message concerning the ongoing contract issue with Lucas Ribeiro.
The South American forward wants to leave the Brazilians this season, and he's trying to get his current contract terminated.
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Source: Briefly News
