Sundowns find themselves at a crossroads with long time midfield maestro Themba Zwane, as contract talks with the 35-year-old have reportedly been put on ice.
Zwane, affectionately known as “Mshishi,” has been sidelined since October with an Achilles injury picked up while on duty with Bafana Bafana during a 2025 AFCON qualifier against Congo Brazzaville.
After undergoing surgery and enduring a lengthy rehabilitation, the playmaker has resumed light training at Chloorkop and is expected to feature in behind-closed-doors friendlies before a full competitive return.
Despite his legendary status at the club, Zwane’s contract is set to expire at the end of June and Sundowns are yet to open formal renewal talks, citing concerns over his recovery and match readiness.
“The club wants to see him back on the pitch and performing at his best before making any decisions. They’re approaching this cautiously, and understandably so,” a source close to the club revealed to FarPost.
Sundowns’ approach illustrates the fine line between loyalty to a club legend and the evolving demands of a squad chasing silverware on multiple fronts.
Zwane has been instrumental in the club’s success over the past decade, helping deliver multiple league titles and continental honours, but age and injury may now be catching up with the midfield general.
With a crunch CAF Champions League quarter-final second leg against Esperance looming and a Nedbank Cup semi-final clash against Kaizer Chiefs waiting on their return from Tunisia, coach Miguel Cardoso is eyeing every inch of experience he can get in the business end of the season.
Zwane’s presence could be a major boost as the Brazilians juggle fixtures in the Champions League, domestic cup, and the Betway Premiership, where they still have seven matches to play.
Orlando Pirates are just 12 points behind, holding four games in hand, making the title race far from over.
While the midfielder’s return could help tip the balance in Sundowns’ favour, the club’s decision to delay his contract renewal suggests a more performance-driven culture is taking root even for its most revered players.