Cardoso Provides Clarity On Maseko’s Future

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has provided an update on the future of his speedy winger Thapelo Maseko, following the player’s frustration on social media regarding his limited game time. 

Maseko, who joined the Brazilians from SuperSport United in the 2023/24 season, has struggled to get game time under Cardoso’s guidance, despite his impressive performances under Rulani Mokwena.

“Of course, he will be here after the window closes. Why should he not be here?” Cardoso said, addressing Maseko’s future at the club after their loss to Orlando Pirates on Saturday. 

“He’s a Mamelodi Sundowns player, he’s part of the squad. And as I see in the club, I don’t see any intention from anyone to let him go.”

Cardoso emphasized that Maseko is an important part of the team and will continue to be motivated to fight for a spot in the starting lineup. 

“He’s working well, of course. When you don’t have a player like Lucas Ribeiro playing on the right where he can play, it gives more chances to the players that can play in those positions, and it’s obvious he’s trying to fight for a space.”

The Portuguese mentor also highlighted the importance of keeping all players motivated and part of the team’s core. 

“Obviously, I want my players motivated, and if I give them chances, it’s also to keep them motivated and to understand they are part of the core of the team,” he emphasized.

“There’s no one in the group that we don’t count, and everything that happens inside the club will always have to deal with the interests of the player and the interests of the club.”

The former Celta Vigo mentor also spoke about the club’s current focus on stability and rebuilding after losing important players. 

“I think it’s clear on the statement from the club regarding players going out or coming in,” he stated. 

“It’s a moment for stability and not for instability, because we are building, building from the past. 

“We lost important players, not many, but very important, because the consequences that they have, the impact that they have on the game was enormous, tremendous.”

The 53-year-old highlighted the progress the team has made in rebuilding and finding connections between players. 

“And we are trying to rebuild out of there, find the connections between the players that we have to reorganize regarding what the absence of them,” he said.

“I think you saw Zuko (Mdunyelwa) quite comfortable again, making a good game.”

Maseko has had a successful stint with Sundowns, winning the Player of the Tournament and Top Goal Scorer of the Tournament in the African Football League in 2023. 

The 21-year-old also represented Bafana Bafana in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in January 2024, playing five games and scoring one goal. 

However, following the departure of Rulani Mokwena, Maseko has struggled to get game time and even lost his place in Bafana Bafana. 

This season, he has played two games, both as a substitute, against Magesi in the league and Orlando Pirates in the MTN8 Cup semifinal second leg.