World Cup Hero Thapelo Maseko Left Disheartened As Sundowns Accused of Blocking 3 Transfer Moves
- Thapelo Maseko's impressive World Cup campaign has reportedly not translated into the fresh start many expected
- Claims of blocked overseas opportunities have raised new questions about the Bafana winger's future at Sundowns
- The claims could explain why one of South Africa's rising stars remains at Sundowns despite overseas interest
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Source: Getty Images
Bafana Bafana winger Thapelo Maseko has reportedly been left disheartened after claims emerged that Mamelodi Sundowns prevented him from securing moves to three overseas clubs despite growing interest following the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The allegations come after the 22-year-old revived his career and impressed on football's biggest stage.
Overseas interest reportedly goes nowhere
TimesLIVE reports that clubs from Denmark and Egypt attempted to sign Maseko, but none of the proposed deals materialised. A source told the publication the player had become increasingly discouraged by the situation.
"There are offers from abroad, but they are not responding to them," the source said.
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The source further alleged that approaches from FC Copenhagen, Al Ahly and Pyramids were unsuccessful despite Maseko not featuring in Sundowns' pre-season plans.
Questions over Maseko's future
According to the publication, Maseko has not travelled with the squad for pre-season and has instead been training separately. The source claimed one proposed move to Denmark collapsed before registration for European competition could be completed.
"They are destroying this boy," the source alleged, adding that Maseko's family had become concerned about his wellbeing.
Source: Getty Images
Mamelodi Sundowns yet to comment
TimesLIVE reported that Mamelodi Sundowns general manager Yogesh Singh could not be reached for comment before publication.
As of 7 August 2026, Sundowns had not publicly responded to the allegations.
Bafana Bafana World Cup prize money boosts SA football
Briefly News previously reported that SAFA received US$12 million (about R218 million) in FIFA prize money after Bafana Bafana reached the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
While each player is expected to receive around R2.5 million, the association said more than R100 million would be reinvested into football development. Captain Ronwen Williams reportedly backed the plan, saying the squad wanted the World Cup success to help produce the next generation of South African stars.
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Source: Briefly News
