Mamelodi Sundowns Begin Squad Overhaul with Release of Five Players
Mamelodi Sundowns have officially parted ways with five senior players as the club begins a fresh chapter. This follows a disappointing campaign at the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States. The reigning Betway Premiership champions made the announcement on Monday. Preparations are ramping up ahead of the 2025/26 season.
Among those released are goalkeeper Sanele Tshabalala, striker Thabang Sibanyoni, left-back Sifiso Ngobeni, Argentinian defender Lucas Suarez, and midfielder Sipho Mbule.
Tshabalala Moves On Without Senior Cap
Shot-stopper Sanele Tshabalala, who joined the Brazilians back in 2020, departs without having made a single first-team appearance. Despite being part of multiple title-winning squads and training with the senior group, the 25-year-old was never handed a competitive outing. He will now be looking for a new environment to revitalise his career.
Development Graduate Sibanyoni Released
Thabang Sibanyoni, a graduate of Sundowns’ youth ranks, has also been shown the door. The striker spent the bulk of his time away on various loan spells. He impressed sporadically but never did enough to cement a spot in a loaded Sundowns attack. With fierce competition for places up front, his exit comes as no surprise.
Ngobeni Seeks Fresh Start
Sifiso Ngobeni’s departure closes a chapter that promised much when he first arrived with high expectations. Touted as a potential long-term solution at left-back, Ngobeni was loaned out to AmaZulu last season. However, stiff competition in Sundowns’ backline meant opportunities were limited, and he now exits in search of regular game time.
Suarez Exit After Mixed Loan Spell
Lucas Suarez, who joined on loan to reinforce the defence, had a handful of appearances across both domestic and continental competitions. While the Argentine defender showed glimpses of quality, several key errors undermined his time at Chloorkop. As a result, the club opted not to make his stay permanent.
Mbule’s Exit Grabs Headlines
Perhaps the most high-profile exit is that of Sipho Mbule. He was signed amid much fanfare from cross-town rivals SuperSport United. The midfielder was seen as a marquee addition to Sundowns’ engine room. However, his time was marred by persistent fitness issues and off-field concerns. These issues prevented him from becoming a consistent starter. Mbule has since secured a move to Orlando Pirates as a free agent. He hopes to reignite his career.
Mamelodi Sundowns Confirm Reshuffle Plans
The club issued a brief statement acknowledging the departures. They thanked the players for their contributions and wished them the best in their respective futures. The move is seen as part of a larger strategy to rebuild the squad following their premature Club World Cup exit.
With a renewed focus on continental success and domestic dominance, Sundowns are expected to bolster their squad in the coming weeks. The Brazilians have already been linked with high-profile names, including CAF Champions League top scorer Fiston Mayele of Pyramids FC. New head coach Miguel Cardoso looks to reshape the team in his image.
Big Moves on the Horizon?
While no major signings have been confirmed yet, insiders suggest the club is preparing for an aggressive transfer window. With the departure of underperforming or fringe players, the technical team has now cleared room. They aim to bring in fresh talent capable of helping the Brazilians maintain their winning culture, both locally and across Africa.
The coming weeks could prove decisive in shaping what is expected to be a new era under Cardoso.
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