Cardoso key to Sundowns' future

When Mamelodi Sundowns made the bold decision to part ways with Manqoba Mngqithi midway through the 2024/25 season, it raised many eyebrows.

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The club was still top of the Betway Premiership, unbeaten, and technically within reach of the CAF Champions League knockout stages. But chairman Thlopie Motsepe made it clear: results alone weren't enough. The identity, the standard, and the ambition of the club needed a refresh. In came Miguel Cardoso the Portuguese tactician known for his tactical sophistication, European pedigree, and a burning desire to shape teams into elite, dynamic outfits. Now, just months into his tenure, the Siya crew understands that despite a mixed bag of results including a narrow CAF Champions League final defeat and a group-stage exit at the FIFA Club World Cup - Sundowns are sticking with Cardoso. Not only is he safe at Chloorkop, but the club also sees him as a long-term piece in their grand vision.

What the Siya crew has been told...

Sources close to the club have revealed that Mamelodi Sundowns are backing coach Miguel Cardoso fully, despite external interest and internal pressure. The club hierarchy is impressed with the transformation in playing style, the improved physical conditioning of the squad, and the elevated global visibility that came with their performance in the USA-based FIFA Club World Cup. According to insiders, Sundowns are not just satisfied - they're actively fending off interest from North African giants, including Zamalek, who are reported to have shortlisted Cardoso as a key candidate for their vacant coaching position.

When Cardoso was brought in at the end of 2024 to replace Manqoba Mngqithi, one of the expectations was for him to lead the club to the CAF Champions League final. The tactician managed to get the club to the final of the continental competition, but the team was unable to get their hands on the trophy. Despite the failure, Cardoso has the full backing of management at Chloorkop and he will be given another opportunity to push for the Champions League title.