Peter Shalulile, Lucas Ribeiro & Khuliso Mudau looming exits to be a distraction for Miguel Cardoso's Mamelodi Sundowns ahead of 2025/26 Premier Soccer League season kick-off?

Sundowns have long been known as a club that thrives on acquiring talent, often boasting one of the deepest squads in South African football. With a relentless fixture schedule that includes league matches, cup competitions, and continental commitments, having a large roster has always been part of the club’s DNA. However, a surprising shift in philosophy is underway under Miguel Cardoso. The former defender has made it clear that he prefers a more streamlined, intimate squad. Instead of embarking on another signing spree, Cardoso has opted for a squad refresh, signing only left-back Fawaaz Basadien so far, while releasing nearly ten players. It’s a bold move, suggesting that quality, cohesion, and chemistry will be favoured over sheer numbers this time around.

Cardoso’s tenure at Masandawana began under less-than-ideal circumstances. He took the reins after the season had already kicked off, inheriting a team that had played seven matches under Manqoba Mngqithi. Though he ultimately guided the team to another league title, there was always a lingering feeling that he hadn’t quite made the team his own. That changes now. With the benefit of a mini pre-season behind him, Cardoso finally begins from scratch - this is his project, his blueprint. Every tactical decision, player departure, and new signing now bears his imprint. For better or worse, Cardoso is officially in the driver’s seat.

In what has become the talk of the town, Downs fans were stunned to hear that three of their biggest stars - Peter Shalulile, Lucas Ribeiro, and Khuliso Mudau could be on the verge of leaving the club. Mudau, widely regarded as the best right-back in the country; Ribeiro, arguably the most technically gifted player in the PSL; and Shalulile, the club’s all-time top scorer, are reportedly attracting serious interest from clubs abroad. If all three were to depart, it would mark the end of an era - and present Cardoso with a major selection headache. Would he turn to the market to find suitable replacements, or place his faith in the likes of Iqraam Rayners and Arthur Sales to step up? It’s a massive call, and the answer could shape the entire season.

For Sundowns, the CAF Champions League remains the Holy Grail. They came agonisingly close last season, only to fall short against Pyramids FC in the final. The desire to go one better is burning stronger than ever, not just for the prestige, but also for a guaranteed ticket to the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup. For Cardoso, it’s personal. He has now reached two consecutive Champions League finals and lost both. Could this be the third time lucky? Perhaps. But as every seasoned football mind knows, success at this level isn’t built on luck alone. It takes meticulous planning, squad depth, and flawless execution. Sundowns know what’s at stake - and they’re preparing accordingly.

Domestically, the Brazilians have turned the Premiership into their personal playground, clinching the title for a staggering eight seasons in a row. The historic ninth is now within reach, with eyes already subtly glancing toward that magical tenth. But this season, the competition promises to be fiercer than ever, with Orlando Pirates emerging as their most credible challengers. The Buccaneers have made it clear they won’t simply lie down and accept second place. They’ll fight tooth and nail to disrupt the Masandawana dynasty. For Cardoso, maintaining dominance is just the beginning. His true mission? Break records, go unbeaten, and achieve what no Sundowns coach before him has - absolute perfection in the league. It’s an ambitious dream, but in football, the impossible often lies just beyond the next 90 minutes.

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