How Mamelodi Sundowns could line up with new signings

Mamelodi Sundowns have displayed great ambitions by signing three new players already in the January transfer window as they look to dislodge Orlando Pirates from the top of the table.

Pirates were the team to beat in the first half of the season as they ended 2025 top of the table with a two-point lead over Sundowns and with a game in hand.

The Brazilians have therefore responded by dipping into the transfer market for reinforcements. Sundowns have shelled out over R50 million on Colombian striker Brayan Leon, as well as undisclosed fees on defender Khulumani Ndamane and winger Monnapule Saleng.

Sundowns will hope the three, plus any other additions in January, will deliver a ninth straight league title plus the CAF Champions League trophy, but it is an extra selection headache for coach Miguel Cardoso.

So, how will Mamelodi Sundowns likely line up with their new signings?

Goalkeeper: Ronwen Williams

The Bafana Bafana No.10 one remains unchallenged and will keep his place in goal.

Right-back: Khuliso Mudau

Rated by many as the best right-back in Africa, the 30-year-old is not under any threat.

Left-back: Aubrey Modiba

A lot of competition at left-back but the 30-year-old’s experience has been preferred by Cardoso over the other options.

Central defence: Keano Cupido

The 27-year-old has sprung to prominence since the Club World Cup and he ticks most boxes for coach Cardoso.

Central defence: Khulumani Ndamane

The new signing has a big battle to win a starting place but he would be a better partner to Cupido due to his mobility and ball-playing abilities although he will find it hard to dislodge Grant Kekana.

Central midfield: Teboho Mokoena

Ever-present and reliable, no one at the club comes close to him in this position.

Central midfield: Nunos Santos

The Portuguese has been playing in the No.10 role but he possesses the ability to play as a deep-lying playmaker and there is where he could be deployed if Sundowns have to accommodate all the fresh faces.

Attacking midfield: Miguel Reisinho

The Portuguese midfielder’s vision, good passing and eye for goal makes him ideal to play behind the front three where he can pull the strings with much freedom.

Right-Wing: Monnapule Saleng

The former Orlando Pirates winger will want to hit the ground running and rekindle the memories of three years ago when he was crowned Player of the Year.

Left-Wing: Arthur Sales

This position has many candidates but the Brazilian’s profile, intelligence, movement and finishing gives him an edge.

Striker: Brayan Leon

Sundowns have not shelled out $3.5 million (R57 million) on the Colombian striker to sit on the bench and so the 25-year-old will have to be given minutes from the start.

Leon is not as prolific as Iqraam Rayners but his price tag dictates that he must be given opportunities although he brings other attributes like attacking space, running channels, pressing and dropping deep to allow others space to score.