Mamelodi Sundowns face early hurdles in the new season

image: KickOff

by Lwandiso Simanga

Mamelodi Sundowns have been dealt a difficult start to the 2025/26 campaign, with injuries, player unrest, and limited squad depth threatening to derail their ambitions.

The Tshwane giants entered the new season with little recovery time following their participation in the FIFA Club World Cup, leaving them only a week of pre-season preparation. Their problems were compounded when reigning PSL Footballer of the Season, Lucas Ribeiro Costa, was unavailable for selection at the start of the campaign, sparking speculation over his future at Chloorkop.

Sundowns made just one signing in the transfer window, Fawaaz Basadien, while releasing several players, a move that left their depth exposed. Rumours of possible departures have only added to the uncertainty. Striker Peter Shalulile, a key figure in their success, is reportedly seeking a new challenge, though the club holds a one-year option on his contract. Defender Khuliso Mudau has also been linked with a move abroad, amid claims he is unhappy with his current deal after skipping pre-season in Rustenburg.

Injuries have further tested coach Rhulani Mokwena’s side. Captain Themba Zwane suffered a setback in the MTN8 clash against Orlando Pirates, while Arthur Sales and Tashreeq Matthews were also forced off during the same match. Sundowns’ strength and conditioning coach, Kaitlin Hunt, admitted that injuries were a worrying reality, especially with the team’s reliance on several key players.

“It is never nice to see top players go down, hopefully, it is nothing serious, because losing them could put the team in a difficult position. But with time, we expect the squad to find its rhythm again,” Hunt said.

Despite the challenges, Sundowns remain hopeful of stabilizing as the season progresses. However, with a congested fixture list and doubts hanging over several stars, the champions will need resilience and depth to maintain their dominance in South African football.