Mamelodi Sundowns News Today: Mailula’s return endorsed & Ntsabeleng deal confirmed

Latest on Mamelodi Sundowns, including former Orlando Pirates midfielder Lebohang Mokoena predicting a Cassius Mailula resurgence and the Brazilians completing the permanent signing of Tsiki Ntsabeleng from FC Dallas.

Mokoena backs Mailula to rediscover his spark

Former Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Lebohang Mokoena has brushed aside concerns about Cassius Mailula’s difficult spell in Europe and tipped the 25-year-old to hit the ground running if he returns to Chloorkop.

Mailula departed Masandawana in July 2023 following just one season in the Betway Premiership and moved to MLS outfit Toronto FC, where he endured a difficult stint that at one point saw him demoted to their reserve side.

Loan moves to Wydad Casablanca and Belgian side KV Kortrijk — where he featured in just three appearances as the club secured promotion back to the Jupiler Pro League — provided limited relief, with Kortrijk ultimately declining to convert the deal into a permanent transfer.

Now a free agent, Mailula has been training with Sundowns and is part of the squad currently on pre-season camp in Austria, though no formal announcement has been made regarding his return.

Mokoena, speaking to FARPost, defended the decision to go to North America and argued the overall experience will serve Mailula well. “Europe is Europe, he can go anytime,” Mokoena said, adding that a strong season at Sundowns could open the door back to European football.

Sundowns boast a well-stocked attack, headlined by Brayan Leon — who reached double figures last term after arriving midseason — alongside Bafana Bafana forward Iqraam Rayners, Lebo Mothiba and Arthur Sales.

Mokoena believes the volume of fixtures at Chloorkop means there will be ample opportunity for Mailula to make his mark, provided he is willing to compete hard for his place in Cardoso’s squad.

Mamelodi Sundowns make Ntsabeleng decision

Mamelodi Sundowns have wrapped up the permanent transfer of winger Tsiki Ntsabeleng from MLS side FC Dallas, with the American club confirming the deal on Friday.

The 28-year-old spent last season on loan with the Brazilians, racking up 14 appearances across all competitions and contributing three goals and an assist — enough to persuade coach Miguel Cardoso to bring him back to Chloorkop on a full-time basis.

During his four seasons with FC Dallas, Ntsabeleng made 92 appearances and registered two goals and seven assists before making the switch to South African football permanent.

The signing adds further depth to Cardoso’s options in the wide areas as Sundowns gear up for a new Betway Premiership campaign and continued continental ambitions in the CAF Champions League.