Cardoso Eyes Reinforcements After Sundowns’ Injury Blow

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has admitted that his squad may dip into the transfer market after three fresh injury concerns left the club thin in attack.

The Tshwane giants edged Stellenbosch FC 1-0 at the Athlone Stadium on Saturday, extending their unbeaten run in the Betway Premiership to five matches. Despite the result, Cardoso revealed that his side’s progress is being hampered by injuries.

“We lost Arthur Sales a little bit before we had planned. We knew that he would not last the match, but at half-time I had to take him out by injury. Unfortunately, (Siyabonga) Mabena had a setback on his knee, so we could not use Mabena and remember (Thapelo) Maseko is injured also. We have some issues regarding the players in the front. That’s the market that we are working on to reinforce the team,” Cardoso told the media.

Key injuries mount in attack

Sundowns’ attack has taken a knock with multiple players sidelined:

• Arthur Sales: withdrawn at half-time against Stellies with injury.
• Siyabonga Mabena: knee setback ruled him out.
• Thapelo Maseko: still recovering.
• Themba Zwane: out since the MTN8 clash with Orlando Pirates two weeks ago.

The depth concerns come just weeks after Sundowns brought in attacking midfielder Katlego “Tsiki” Ntshabeleng. However, Cardoso hinted that more reinforcements are required before the transfer window closes.

New signings under discussion

Cardoso confirmed he will hold talks with Sundowns sporting director Flemming Berg to identify new players who can cover the attacking gaps.

While bolstering the front line is the immediate priority, the Brazilians could also strengthen elsewhere. TS Galaxy chairman Tim Sukazi recently revealed that Sundowns are eyeing young defender Khulumani Ndamane, suggesting a busy few weeks at Chloorkop.

What this means for Sundowns

Sundowns remain top contenders in the Premiership, but their attacking options are stretched. Cardoso’s willingness to act quickly in the transfer market shows the club’s intent to maintain dominance on all fronts.

The fans will be watching closely to see if Sundowns bring in new signings before the window shuts. With continental commitments also on the horizon, squad depth could be the difference between success and disappointment.

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