Veteran Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper Denis Onyango has firmly dismissed speculation surrounding his potential retirement and wants a new contract at the club.
The 40-year-old, who stepped away from international football with Uganda in 2021, insists he is not yet ready to call time on his club career.
“To be honest, I’m still here,” Onyango said in an interview with the club’s media following Sundowns’ latest league title win. “The body will speak to me eventually, but I can confidently say I’ll be at Mamelodi Sundowns for at least another season.”
Onyango’s remarks follow the Brazilians’ latest triumph, which secured the club’s seventh consecutive league title. For the experienced shot-stopper, the hunger for success remains undiminished, as he sets his sights on extending his record haul of league titles.
“We should go for the 13th title. Yeah, I’m still playing,” he added, referencing his unparalleled tally of 12 Premiership titles – the most in South African top-flight history.
Although Onyango now plays a supporting role behind current first-choice keeper and Bafana Bafana captain Ronwen Williams, his experience and influence remain invaluable. His leadership both on and off the pitch continues to be a key asset for the Sundowns squad, particularly in high-stakes environments.
His future at the club looks promising, despite his one-year deal nearing its end. “Of course, the club has to speak to me, but I’m still playing, and I believe I still have the energy to support the boys,” he said.
Beyond domestic ambitions, Onyango and Sundowns are focused on continental success. The club is preparing for the CAF Champions League final against Egyptian side Pyramids FC, with the first leg set for this Saturday in South Africa.
A crucial figure in Masandawana’s 2016 Champions League-winning campaign, Onyango may not start the final but is expected to play a significant leadership role behind the scenes as the team seeks to reclaim African glory.
For now, retirement talk is firmly off the table. Onyango, ever composed, is determined to continue making his mark – both as a player and as a mentor – for at least one more season.