Mamelodi Sundowns’ defensive depth questioned as Khuliso Mudau faces six-month absence - 'The club needed to sign another right-back'

The Chloorkop-based giants are reeling from the news that Khuliso Mudau faces a lengthy spell in the treatment room.

Former Sundowns star Manqoba Ngwenya believes the club cannot afford to stand still following this setback.

While the Brazilians have quality in their ranks, Ngwenya insists that the unique profile Mudau brings to the pitch is almost impossible to replicate with the current options available to the technical team.

Speaking to KickOff, Ngwenya was candid about the situation, suggesting that the African champions were already short in that department before the injury occurred.

"Finding a defender like him is going to be difficult for Sundowns because he is one of the best in the world," said Ngwenya.

"Mudau is always confident challenging any player when it comes to pace, confident in his style of play, and he creates goals.

The former star emphasised that the sheer volume of fixtures facing the club necessitates a dip into the transfer market.

With Sundowns competing on multiple fronts, including the Betway Premiership and continental competitions, the strain on the remaining defensive personnel will be immense.

Ngwenya noted: "Though we have players in his position, considering the severity of the injury, Sundowns will have to sign a right-back.

"We all know the number of competitions Sundowns will need to participate in this season.

"Even before Mudau got injured, the club needed to sign another right-back."

In the wake of Mudau's long-term absence, the spotlight now turns to Thapelo Morena, Kegan Johannes, and Zuko Mdunyelwa. These three players are currently the internal candidates tasked with filling the massive void left by the Bafana stalwart.

Despite these options, there is a growing sense of unease among the Masandawana faithful regarding whether any of them can provide the same consistent output as Mudau.

As the transfer window remains a focus for the club, rumors are already circulating regarding potential replacements. Polokwane City's Thabang Matuludi has been linked with a move to Gauteng, with both Sundowns and Orlando Pirates reportedly monitoring his situation closely.

Ultimately, the decision lies with the Sundowns hierarchy and their recruitment department. Replacing a player of Mudau's caliber in the middle of a campaign is a daunting task, but Ngwenya’s warnings reflect a broader sentiment that the squad’s current depth might not be enough to sustain a trophy charge without reinforcements.