Lucas Ribeiro returns to Mamelodi Sundowns training amid exit rumours - 'I’m very happy'

Mamelodi Sundowns forward Lucas Ribeiro has rejoined the Premier Soccer League champions for the pre-season training.

The Brazilian has arrived after reports had indicated he requested to leave the training camp and complete transfer talks with an unnamed club.

“It was a very good season; the team played very well. It was not an easy season with so many games, but I’m very happy to take these trophies, individual trophies, but I don’t play alone; it’s the squad that I have with me, my teammates, the supporters, and the coaches,” Ribeiro told the press.

“The coach put my level very high, as with the other players. I am very happy – I like all the awards; everything is important to me, Player of the Season, everything is important to me; it was a crazy season – all four are important," he added.

“Training today was good. I’m very happy to be at training. I’m back for training with the team and happy to see the players and the coaches. I’m very happy to be training today."

The PSL 2024/25 top scorer also called on their fans to turn out in large numbers and support them during the MTN8 clash against Richards Bay.

“Very important game; support us, please give everything as you did last season, push the guys, the players on the pitch—it’s important," Ribeiro added.

"It’s a good game on Sunday, so Masandawana, help the team and push the team for the win in this game. Vamos, vamos."

The 2024/25 PSL Player of the Season had been linked with a number of clubs from Qatar, France, and Belgium. He was also linked with Brazil's Fluminense, but his return to training indicates he may not leave after all.

Ribeiro has established himself as an important player for Masandawana, as he also scored 25 goals in 51 games across all competitions.

After joining the Tshwane giants in 2023, the 26-year-old developed into a key player. Just recently, he won the FIFA Club World Cup Goal of the Tournament for his goal against Borussia Dortmund.

As Ribeiro's future continues to attract speculation, Masandawana are intensifying their training before the new season begins.

On Sunday, they will engage Richards Bay in the MTN8 quarter-final encounter.