Mamelodi Sundowns respond to contract rebel Lucas Ribeiro

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Mamelodi Sundowns respond to contract rebel Lucas Ribeiro
Image - PSL

Mamelodi Sundowns have responded to Lucas Ribeiro following his desire to force a move away from the club.

Ribeiro confirmed on Thursday that he wants to terminate his contract with Sundowns after what he perceives as being priced out of a big-money move, with Qatar SC reportedly the club keen to sign him.

Sundowns have, however, maintained a hardline stance, insisting the player, who has a contract until 2028, will only leave at the right price, forcing the Brazilian playmaker to threaten to move to the FIFA Tribunal.

However, in a strongly-worded statement on Thursday evening, Sundowns insisted Ribeiro will not leave on his terms but only when the interested club pays what they deem to be the right price.

What has Sundowns said over Ribeiro’s move?

“Sundowns has made significant investments in its youth academies and in developing and training boys and girls football players, to represent the Club, the South African and other National Teams in competitions on the African Continent and globally,” the Sundowns statement reads in part.

“Mamelodi Sundowns has also made substantial investments over the years in recruiting, training and acquiring the services of some of the best South African, African and South American football players.

“It has always been the policy and commitment of Mamelodi Sundowns to engage and negotiate with football clubs in Africa and worldwide, that are interested in recruiting and acquiring the services of the club’s players.

“The objective of Sundowns in these discussions and negotiations has always been to advance the interests of the player and the club and to be fair and just, and to contribute to the fulfilment of the interests of all parties.”

Sundowns confirmed to have received interest in their players but are keen to ensure that those who leave follow the laid down regulations.

PSL champions confirm interest in their players

“Mamelodi Sundowns has received enquiries, particularly after the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, from a few prominent football clubs that have expressed an interest in acquiring the services of certain Sundowns players,” the statement further reads.

Lucas Ribeiro Costa at FIFA Club World Cup in 2025

“Mamelodi Sundowns is committed to continue with these discussions and negotiations, as part of its policy and deep commitment to advance the interests of the players and the club, as well as the fulfilment of the objectives and interests of all parties.

“The players, Technical Team, management, Board and the Chairman of Mamelodi Sundowns, Tlhopie Motsepe, are all motivated and inspired to compete and succeed in all competitions in South Africa and on the African continent.”

Besides Ribeiro, Peter Shalulile, Thapelo Maseko and Khuliso Mudau are the other prominent Sundowns players who have been linked with an exit. 

<!-- Author Start -->Joel Oliver<!-- Author End -->

Joel Oliver

Author

Joel Oliver is a seasoned multimedia sports journalist with a rich background in covering diverse football stories and events in South Africa and beyond.
His extensive coverage spans subjects touching on the PSL, with a focus on the Big Three (Orlando Pirates, Kaizer Chiefs & Mamelodi Sundowns), Bafana Bafana and Banyana Banyana.

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