Basadien opens up on Mamelodi Sundowns struggles amid exit reports

Mamelodi Sundowns defender Fawaaz Basadien has opened up on his lack of gametime at the club since joining ahead of this season from Stellenbosch FC.

Sundowns beat other suitors for the highly-rated left-back and he was seen as a player who could slot in directly into the team but he has found playing time hard to come by.

For a player who many considered to be among the top three in his position in the country, few would have expected the situation that has befallen Basadien, who has made just seven appearances for Sundowns so far this season, three of them being starts.

Basadien behind Modiba and Lunga

Thabiso Monyane and Fawaaz Basadien vie for the ball during Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns match

Basadien has struggled to dislodge Aubrey Modiba and Divine Lunga, who are the left-backs preferred by coach Miguel Cardoso, and there have been calls for him to move on this month in search of regular playing time.

However, the 29-year-old appears determined to fight for his place even with the difficult circumstances he is facing at Chloorkop.

“Adapting to a new setup and earning your place in a team of such quality takes time,” Basadien said via Sundowns media.

“I understand and respect that I must fight for my place, as we have some exceptional defenders. That motivates me to work harder every day. I’m also fully aware of the responsibility that comes with the badge.

What does the future hold for the defender?

Fawaaz Basadien Ronwen Williams Glody Lilepo Kaizer Chiefs vs Mamelodi Sundowns — Image – Chiefs

“I feel confident that my skills and experience can add value to what Sundowns want to achieve on the pitch. I want to bring consistency, energy and leadership every time I step onto the field and help the team maintain our high standards.”

That looks like a statement of a man who is content with his current circumstances and Basadien will be hoping for a spell in the team under Cardoso in the second half of the season.

Basadien had made 111 appearances for Stellenbosch before signing for Sundowns, scoring eight goals and providing 18 assists, with 2024-25 campaign his most productive one, as he netted seven times and created eight goals in 46 games.