Following Mamelodi Sundowns‘ MTN8 semi-final exit, head coach Miguel Cardoso has addressed the speculation surrounding the future of winger Thapelo Maseko, confirming the player will remain at the club.
Sundowns were defeated by Orlando Pirates in a penalty shootout after two consecutive 1-1 draws in their semi-final clashes.
Despite opening the scoring in both matches, Sundowns were unable to secure a victory.
After the final whistle, Cardoso spoke to the media and revealed that Maseko, who has been linked with a move away, will not be leaving the club during the current transfer window.
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“Of course he will be here after the [transfer] window closes,” Cardoso stated. “He’s a Mamelodi Sundowns player. He’s part of the squad, and as I see it in the club, I don’t see any intentions for anyone to let him go.”
Maseko’s future had been a hot topic in the local media space, after he reportedly expressed his frustration on Instagram about feeling overlooked by the coaching staff. The talented winger was also linked with a move to Cypriot club Aris Limassol, but the deal never materialized.
Cardoso stressed the importance of keeping all players motivated and a part of the team’s core, adding that the club is focused on stability. “I want my players motivated, and if I give them chances, it’s also to keep them motivated and to understand that they are part of the core of the team,” he said.
“Everything that happens inside the club will always have to deal with the interest of the player but also the interest of the club,” Cardoso added. “It’s a moment for stability and not for instability because we are building, building from the past.”
The coach also acknowledged the departure of key players, emphasizing that the team is in a rebuilding phase. “We lost important players… the impact they had on the game was enormous, tremendous, and we are trying to rebuild out of there,” he said.
“We need to manage the fatigue and the moment of the players so that everyone is motivated but part of the group,” Cardoso concluded.
Sundowns will look to bounce back from their MTN8 defeat when they face Kaizer Chiefs in a Betway Premiership clash on Wednesday, 27 August 2025. Kick off at the FNB Stadium is set for 19h30.