In a shocking turn of events, Mamelodi Sundowns have appointed Miguel Cardoso as their new head coach.
The Portuguese tactician will take over from Manqoba Mngqithi who was appointed at the start of the 2024-25 season after the club decided to cut ties with Rulani Mokwena.
Cardoso secured Esperance’s spot in the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup and led them to the final of the CAF Champions League where he came up short to Al Ahly 1-0 on aggregate. He knocked out Sundowns in the quarterfinals of this competition after defeating them 2-0 on aggregate.
Mngqithi’s stint at the helm of Sundowns faced several challenges. He was knocked out by Stellenbosch FC at the semifinals of the MTN8 after recording back-to-back 1-0 losses.
The 53-year-old coach managed to lead the club to the final of the Carling Knockout Cup but eventually lost to newly-promoted Magesi FC 2-1. He was in charge of the Brazilians for 22 games, recorded 16 victories, played two draws and succumbed to four losses in all competitions.
The club also announced that it has also parted ways with Romain Folz and Wendell Robinson. However, Steve Komphela and Kennedy Mweene will remain with the Yellow Nation.
Fabio Fernandes, Pedro Azevedo and João Araújo will be part of Cardoso’s new technical team.
“Mamelodi Sundowns is thankful to Manqoba Mngqithi and Wendell Robinson for their loyal services to the club over the years and wishes them everything of the best in their new endevours. Manqoba Mngqithi and Wendell Robinson will forever remain part of the Mamelodi Sundowns Family. Mamelodi Sundowns is also thankful to Romain Folz who recently joined the club,” reads a statement by Sundowns.