Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has singled out a crucial player in his squad who he hopes will remain with the club for the long term.
Cardoso’s comments came after Sundowns’ impressive 3-0 victory over SuperSport United in their Betway Premiership clash on Wednesday evening at Lucas Masterpieces Moripe Stadium.
The Portuguese coach, who joined Sundowns following a successful stint with Esperance, spoke about the importance of fostering the right mentality within his team, which has been a central theme of his approach since taking charge.
Read: Mamelodi Sundowns dominate Tshwane Derby with convincing win over SuperSport
During his reflections, Cardoso specifically highlighted his one-on-one conversations with Lucas Ribeiro, the Brazilian playmaker has been in strong form this season.
Cardoso noted that despite Ribeiro’s impressive performances, he sees even greater potential for improvement and believes the player could achieve even higher levels of success.
“One of the things I said to Lucas [Ribeiro] when I arrived here, knowing that he was in good form in the league, was to try to tell him that there are always things that can be done,” said Cardoso.
“Try to make him understand that ambition he should have to try and develop himself should be present every day in his life.
“We work hard on the mindset of the players, a lot. We work hard on that. And I think the message is [for all] of them. With commitment, hard work, a strong mindset on getting better, respect and waking up every day thinking that this is the day to do my best.
Cardoso also expressed his desire for Sundowns to secure Ribeiro’s future at the club, seeing him as a key part of their long-term plans. The 26-year-old’s skill set, including his impressive left foot, has made him a vital component of the team’s attacking strategy, and Cardoso believes the player can continue to evolve into one of the league’s standout performers.
“Lucas can go. We need to profit as much as possible while we can from him, and let’s hope the club can keep him for long because he’s a very important player.” – he concluded.
As the coach continues to make his mark on the powerhouse of South African football, Mamelodi Sundowns, Ribeiro is undoubtedly one of the key players that Cardoso is looking to rely on.
The Pretoria-based outfit will face their toughest test yet in the Betway Premiership when they lock horns with Orlando Pirates this weekend.