Sundowns chairman fires title warning to Pirates as he promises squad shakeup

Mamelodi Sundowns chairman Tlhopie Motsepe is not shaken by the fact that his team have ended the year second and not top of the PSL table.

Sundowns finished 2025 second on the PSL table with 26 points from 13 matches, two behind leaders Orlando Pirates, who have played 12 games, and the PSL champions have not been as impressive as in years before.

The Brazilians, who have won the last eight PSL crowns, are used to being top of the table by the end of the year but the balance of power has shifted this time as it is Abdeslam Ouaddou’s side at the summit by the close of 2025.

Motsepe admits it is an unfamiliar position for his team to be in but feels it is too early to panic.

Motsepe makes big promise

“As the year closes, we find ourselves in a position that is unfamiliar in recent seasons. While we may not be where we aspire to be at this point, history has taught us that league titles are decided in May, not December,” Motsepe wrote in his open letter to Sundowns fans.

“What has sustained this club through every era will continue to guide us — the unwavering support of Masandawana. Unity within the Yellow Family will always be our greatest strength.”

In what is a clear indication that Sundowns will be busy in the soon-to-be-open January transfer window, Motspe has promised to shake up the squad to ensure they are competitive on all fronts.

“Turning to our first team, starting 2026 strongly will be a key objective for Themba Zwane and his teammates. Your chairman, the Sporting Director, and the board have already begun the work of ensuring that the right people and the right players are in place for a season filled with purpose and ambition,” he added.

Has Cardoso been backed?

While coach Miguel Cardoso has come under increasing pressure from fans, the Portuguese tactician seems to retain the support of the Sundowns boss for now.

“At the same time, I would like to sincerely thank coach Miguel Cardoso and the entire squad for the commitment and success they delivered in 2025,” he said.

“Winning our eighth consecutive league title and reaching a CAF Champions League final for the first time in nine years were remarkable achievements. I also thank the supporters who stood by the team and the coach when it mattered most.”

Sundowns will be looking to reclaim their position at the top of the table in the new year as well as challenging for the CAF Champions League after reaching last season’s final.