Brazilian attacking midfielder Lucas Ribeiro has penned a heartfelt message to Mamelodi Sundowns’ faithful, confirming his departure after two seasons.
The 26-year-old joined the Brazilians in July 2023 from Belgian club SK Beveren and became a pillar of Downs’ attack, making 88 appearances, netting 37 goals and providing 23 assists.
He was named PSL Player of the Season and won the Golden Boot for the 2024/25 season after scoring 16 goals.
Ribeiro attracted overseas interest during Masandawana’s participation in the FIFA Club World Cup, where his goal against Borussia Dortmund was voted as the goal of the tournament.
Qatar SC and Fluminense were reportedly vying for his signature. The inability to secure a move abroad led to the midfielder seeking the intervention of the FIFA Tribunal in a bid to have his contract terminated.
“I believe that I have just cause to terminate my contract with Mamelodi Sundowns FC, which I will explain before the FIFA Football Tribunal,” Ribeiro declared in a statement.
Ribeiro’s departure announcement came as a shock, as there had been no updates on his case with Sundowns.
He expressed that he gave it all on the field for Sundowns, a club that he lifted three trophies with, including two league titles and one African Football League.
“From the very first day I arrived, I gave my all, on and off the field, to earn my place and proudly defend Mamelodi Sundowns,” he wrote in an Instagram post.
“These past two years have been incredible, full of emotions ❤️🥹. I have learned so much from this beautiful culture—not only to become a better player, but also a better human being.
“To my wonderful Masandawana supporters, first of all, thank you for everything. I want you to know that your support and love meant so much to me, and I will never forget you ❤️❤️. I will always carry [you] in my heart the memories of the emotions I lived, the goals, the assists, the trophies, and the magical nights with you that made me feel at home. I wish I could have said goodbye in a better way, but please know that my love for you is endless ❤️🥹.
“I am grateful to all the coaches who were part of this beautiful story—I will always appreciate each of you ❤️. To my teammates, my second family, thank you for every battle, every title won, every smile, and every moment we shared together. You will always be my brothers, and I will miss you so much 🥹❤️🙏🏾.
“Playing for Sundowns and living this beautiful culture has been such a great honor for me. I will truly miss it 🥹🙏🏾. thank you south africa❤️❤️
Thank you, Mamelodi Sundowns, for everything ❤️. With much love Ribeiro #10 ❤️🥹,” he concluded.
He is rumoured to be joining Spanish Segunda Division team, club CyD Leonesa. They are currently sitting at the bottom of the table, having played one draw and lost three of their four opening league matches.
