Monnapule Saleng: Why ex-Pirates star is missing from Sundowns camp

Mamelodi Sundowns have reportedly started their pre-season tour in Austria without key attacker Monnapule Saleng, who is sidelined with an injury ahead of the 2026-27 season.

The 28-year-old winger did not travel with Miguel Cardoso’s squad for their European training camp, where the team is ramping up preparations with a series of high-profile friendly matches.

According to KickOff, Saleng sustained an injury recently, though the specific details and expected recovery time have not been disclosed.

Cardoso keen to utilise Saleng

His absence is a blow to the technical team, who are using the camp to build fitness and tactical cohesion for a demanding season ahead.

Despite this setback, Saleng is understood to be a significant part of Cardoso’s plans for the upcoming campaign. The left-footed player joined Sundowns in a high-profile transfer from Orlando Pirates in January, following a six-month loan spell at Orbit College.

After spending the latter half of last season adapting to his new club, Saleng was expected to take on a more prominent role last season. However, this injury has temporarily halted his progress and delayed his chance to secure a regular spot in the star-studded lineup.

Sundowns open pre-season with draw

Sundowns started their pre-season fixtures on Tuesday, playing to a 1-1 draw against German side Hertha Berlin. New signing Antonio van Wyk made an immediate impact, scoring on his unofficial debut.

The Brazilians’ tour also includes matches against Cardiff City, Al Hilal, Al Arabi SC and Algerian champions MC Alger, a club formerly managed by Rulani Mokwena. The team will return to South Africa to finalise preparations before the new domestic and continental season kicks off.

Saleng will hope to recover quickly from the latest setback to play a key part in the new campaign as the Brazilians look to reclaim the league title and retain their CAF Champions League crown.