Ex-Kaizer Chiefs star assesses Peter Shalulile's situation at Mamelodi Sundowns amid swelling transfer rumours - 'It is like eating a meal without enjoying it'

Tunisian giants Esperance and clubs in Saudi Arabia are said to be after the signature of Mamelodi Sundowns forward Peter Shalulile.

This comes as the Namibian has been struggling for regular football under coach Miguel Cardoso. 

It appears Shalulile's time at Chloorkop could be nearing the end after five seasons at the club where his spell included being crowned the PSL top goal-scorer twice.

With Miguel seemingly not planning around the striker, former Kaizer Chiefs attacker Kenny Niemach assesses the 31-year-old's situation. 

"He's been with the club for several seasons, and every footballer goes through an emotional phase," Niemach told KickOff.

"Before placing blame, we should consider whether he wants to stay at Sundowns or if he feels bored after achieving so much. Perhaps he needs a new challenge.

"Another possibility is that the coaching staff may feel he isn't fully present. But what I can say for sure is that Peter Shalulile is a finisher, and he can definitely add value to any club in the PSL. In South African football, we don't score enough goals," added the returned footballer who also turned out for Sundowns. 

"The decision ultimately rests with the player. Without passion, there is no success. As a striker, you need that fire within you. If you lack passion, there's no point in playing; it’s like eating a meal without enjoying it.

"For Shalulile to perform at his best, he needs to feel that fire. It's not necessarily that the coach doesn't appreciate him; perhaps the team has evolved, and he finds himself in a different position. Sundowns has also improved tactically," Niemach continued. 

"This doesn't imply a personal issue. The reality is that he will fit in at certain moments. We aspire to be the best on the continent, and for that, some tough decisions are required. 

"I commend Shalulile for everything he has done for the club, he is part of the legacy that Sundowns is today."

Shalulile is one of a few Masandawana players who are being linked with moves away from Chloorkop during the current transfer window.

The likes of Lucas Ribeiro Costa, Khuliso Mudau and Kutlwano Letlhaku are also being strongly rumoured to be close to leaving Sundowns.

With Sundowns having signed one player so far, they would be forced to be aggressive in the transfer market should the rumoured players leave the club.

Shalulile was not selected for last weekend's MTN8 quarter-final match against Richards Bay and it is to be seen if he will take part in the 2025/26 Premier Soccer League opener against Chippa United.

The next few weeks will clearly tell if the former Highlands Park star still has a future at Chloorkop.