'Where is Lucas Ribeiro Costa? When will he get his independence?' - Fans demand answers from Mamelodi Sundowns after PSL champions exclude Brazilian star

Mamelodi Sundowns' move to wish Brazil a Happy Independence Day with a poster of Arthur Sales and excluding Lucas Ribeiro has divided opinion online.

In a bid to wish and connect with their Brazilian fans, players, and even the citizens, Masandawana posted a graphic design with only Sales appearing, while Ribeiro was not displayed or even mentioned.   

This comes as the club and their star player, the 2024/25 PSL Golden Boot winner and Player of the Season, engage in a legal tussle over his contract.

The 26-year-old forward wants to have his contract terminated and move on, while Sundowns want him to honour his contractual obligations.

The Brazilian is yet to feature for Masandawana this season as the transfer saga intensifies, and the Independence Day display could widen the crack even more.

The display, which showed Sales holding the Brazilian flag, was posted across Downs' social media pages. This, of course, caught the eyes of fans, with some questioning why Ribeiro was not included.  

See how the fans reacted to Sundowns' post meant for the Brazilians who are celebrating their national independence day. 

The pettiness in this… So you, Ribeiro Yena, ceased being a Brazilian when you asked to leave? - m a s h è s h a 

We have two Brazilians, though; why post one? – T_begwell 11 

@Masandawana admin, why are you posting that one Brazilian player? King Ribeiro is still on your payroll. Remember you paid him just last week - Trevor Sticks 

Give Ribeiro his independence - katli 

Happy Independence Day to all Brazilians except Judas - Judas Costa 

Hau, Lucas Ribeiro, is from which country? - GHOST