Sundowns to hand new contract to star who has played just two games

Mamelodi Sundowns are expected to activate a contract extension for defender Mothobi Mvala, which would keep him at the club beyond his current deal set to expire in 2026.

The 31-year-old has had a difficult season plagued by injuries, limiting him to just two appearances across all competitions following surgery earlier in the campaign. However, there is renewed optimism for a late-season return, as coach Miguel Cardoso confirmed Mvala resumed training with the first team last week.

Mvala arrived at Sundowns from Highlands Park in 2020, alongside star striker Peter Shalulile. Both players are approaching the end of their current contracts, but according to SABC, the club appears keen to retain the defender.

Mvala was key for Sundowns before injuries

Mothobi Mvala. — Mothobi Mvala of Mamelodi Sundowns. Image: Mamelodi Sundowns

Despite his recent fitness struggles, Mvala’s leadership qualities and significant influence within the dressing room are reportedly key factors driving the decision to extend his stay.

His value was also evident on the international stage when he played a crucial role in Bafana Bafana’s bronze medal-winning campaign at the Africa Cup of Nations in Cote d’Ivoire. National team coach Hugo Broos praised his defensive partnership with Grant Kekana during the tournament.

Unfortunately, persistent injuries since then have curtailed his international career, forcing him to miss recent AFCON qualifiers and FIFA World Cup squads.

Cardoso provides injury update on defender

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Coach Cardoso has emphasised a cautious approach to reintroducing Mvala, particularly with important PSL fixtures and a CAF Champions League clash against AS FAR on the horizon.

“Mothobi is training with the team, but not for a long time – basically almost one week,” Cardoso stated. “Obviously, considering the long-term injury he had, there’s not only his return to training but his return to performance.”

“He is a very important player in the locker room, a very important player for us in terms of what we see. He’s a leader, a high profile and character. I love him so much, but I think we should not put too much pressure on him coming to the pitch to play. It’s important to give him the proper condition so that when he comes he really comes and settles down.”