Cardoso promises ‘beautiful things’ for ‘unfairly’ treated Sundowns star

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has reassured fans that Denis Onyango remains a crucial part of the club, promising “beautiful things ahead” for the Ugandan legend despite his limited playing time this season.

Cardoso addressed the media following Sundowns’ 2-1 league victory over Golden Arrows on Sunday, explaining the difficult selection process he faces with the team’s goalkeeping talent.

“Denis was here today with us; he was the third keeper,” Cardoso stated as per KickOff.

Denis Onyango, Themba Zwane and Ronwen Williams, Mamelodi Sundowns. — Denis Onyango, Themba Zwane and Ronwen Williams, Mamelodi Sundowns – Images: Sundowns

“When we travel outside Johannesburg, we usually travel with an extra player and goalkeeper. Last time it was not him; it was Reyaad (Pieterse). Both of them are level; that makes me feel it is unfair [to choose one over the other], but I can’t change the rules of the game.”

Cardoso admits selection headache

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso. Photo: Mamelodi Sundowns

Despite Onyango’s reduced role on match days, Cardoso emphasised that the relationship between the player and the club is strong.

“Denis is at peace with us; we are at peace with him. There are beautiful things ahead of him at the club,” he continued. “We will embrace him continuously because he can still perform at this level, and he proves it every day in training.”

Denis Onyango playing for Mamelodi Sundowns. Photo: Mamelodi Sundowns

The coach admitted the challenge of managing such a high-calibre group of goalkeepers, which includes current number one Ronwen Williams, Pieterse and Ricardo Goss.

“It’s a hell of a job having two of three keepers in the national team setup,” Cardoso confessed. “To still have Denis and Reyaad at their level best since I arrived is unbelievable. And he could be playing. I must confess, it’s a tough one.”

Onyango: A loyal Sundowns servant

Onyango’s legendary status at Sundowns, where he has spent nearly 15 years, won nine league titles and two CAF Champions League crowns, and earned over 80 caps for Uganda, adds weight to the situation.

Denis Onyango, Mamelodi Sundowns. Image: Mamelodi Sundowns

While most clubs would be fortunate to have one keeper of his quality, Sundowns’ abundance of talent has fueled speculation about his potential departure.

However, Cardoso’s comments suggest the club is not preparing to part ways with the veteran. For a player who has dedicated a significant portion of his career to Sundowns, the promise of “beautiful things ahead” indicates a future that extends beyond the pitch.