Joel Masilela: Sundowns have nothing to worry about despite early struggles

Despite failing to reach the Caf Champions League knockout stages and having exited in the MTN8, Mamelodi Sundowns legend Joel Masilela believes the Brazilians will bounce back.

The man also known as 'Fire' has backed coach Pitso Mosimane's men to challenge for more trophies in the current 2018/19 Premier Soccer League (PSL) term.

“I think there's nothing much to say or worry about so far and yes they failed to reach the next round of the Caf tournament, but I think they are good,” Masilela told Goal.

“Even last season they could not reach the semi-finals in Caf and last season we failed to do better in the MTN8 and they won the league, but that is football,” said the legend.

“I also think it is a blessing in disguise for them to focus on other trophies and getting the team settled,” he reacted.

“You will remember we lost Percy (Tau) and (Khama) Billiat and that has changed the team a lot, but I believe things will come right because there are replacements in players such as (Lebohang) Maboe, (Ali) Meza and (Toni) Silva," he said.

“I think so far so good for the team despite the two cup exits and there is no reason to panic as yet because the belief is still there from the guys,” he noted.

“I think they just need to be disciplined and rectify a few mistakes, the technical team is good and there is no doubt about that. They have support from the management,” said the 48-year-old.

Speaking on the new signings such as Phakamani Mahlambi, Meza, Silva and Andile Jali, the man who also starred for Bafana Bafana has praised the new recruits.

“Yeah they are exceptional players, good players and it is just a matter of time before they settle down and show us their true qualities,” he said.

“I think they will find the rhythm and the balance to gel in how the club and the coach wants them to play,” added the retired midfielder.

“Pitso is one of the most intelligent coaches in the world and he knows that he brought good players and how to do some good things to improve his team,” he praised.

Responding to the challenges in continental competitions where the Brazilians failed to have a normal off-season, Masilela said the club is now experienced enough when it comes to Caf Champions League.

He believes the new format will help the reigning PSL champions to plan appropriately as it will run from August to May.

“I think we are used to these challenges and the players, the technical team must know how to tackle the programme better,” continued Fire.

“The Caf tournament has brought experience and the tight schedules have helped the team to grow in stature,” he reacted.

“The new format will definitely help because the players will also rest and come back for the new season refreshed unlike in the past few seasons,” he concluded.