Perfect start for Miguel Cardoso! Mamelodi Sundowns coach explains why 'it was very easy' to settle into life with PSL champions after replacing Manqoba Mngqithi

Miguel Cardoso has been in charge of Mamelodi Sundowns for nine days and has already made an impression by winning two out of two games.

His first victory came against Raja Casablanca in the Caf Champions League.

He followed it up with a league win against Stellenbosch on Wednesday night, securing his first three points in domestic competition.

Speaking to the media after the victory, Cardoso reflected on life at the club and how he is adjusting to the role.

He praised the club’s professional structure and the open-mindedness of the players.

The Portuguese also highlighted the quick adaptation of his ideas due to the commitment of everyone involved.

The coach emphasized that the welcoming atmosphere made his job easier and allowed him to make progress immediately. His fast start hints at a promising tenure, though challenges lie ahead.

“It’s a hell of a job. The first day after my presentation, and a lot of meetings with all the departments, so try to understand the model of the function of each department to immediately adapt small details regarding what I think is important for the team,” Cardoso said after their win over Stellies as reported by iDiski Times.

“But let me tell you, and I did it already, and I sent immediately after the first game to all the structure of Mamelodi Sundowns it was very easy because the structure is so professional, the level of everybody and the commitment to the task is so professional, that my life was very, very easy.

“So I think that after the first group of meetings, on the second day, and the first training session, we were able to put into practice some of the things we wanted. The second thing, very important at the same time, the group received us with open arms, open minds. So that made us get our energy out so that we could connect ourselves.

“So I believe that after one to two days, we were all smiling. I also praised the players for that, the way they received us, and it was more simple to give steps in front in terms of what is the preparation of a coach.”

“The first thing to finish the question, is important to pick the team from where it was and not drastically change things, otherwise, you can create discomfort,” he continued.

“So gradually, with small details, we are trying to move the team forward with a lot of respect by the work that was done by coach Manqoba before us.

“And just moving forward from the point where it was so no breaks and sudden changes on the team, otherwise, probably the discomfort would be too big and the work would not be productive.

“And now from here, we gradually improve ourselves.”

Cardoso’s perfect start at Sundowns is impressive, but it brings heightened expectations.

With the team currently sitting at the top of the log, maintaining the momentum is crucial.

The Sundowns faithful will hope their new coach can sustain the high-performance standards set by the club.

The Portuguese tactician is already showing signs of understanding the club’s philosophy. However, consistent results will be the ultimate test of his capabilities in this high-pressure role.

Sundowns will face AmaZulu in their next league fixture. Cardoso will aim to continue the team’s winning streak and maintain their position at the top of the table.

Another win would solidify their dominance and build confidence under his leadership.

Usuthu will present a different set of challenges, but Sundowns will be eager to showcase their quality.

A win against AmaZulu could set the tone for the rest of the season.