Santos: Cardoso Was Key To Join Sundowns

Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Nuno Santos has revealed that head coach Miguel Cardoso played a key role in his decision to join the African giants.

Santos signed for Sundowns in August from Portuguese outfit Vitória SC following the departure of Lucas Ribeiro Costa, who was one of the club’s most influential players last season.

The 26-year-old has enjoyed an impressive start to the campaign, scoring three goals in the CAF Champions League—including a brace against St Eloi Lupopo that helped secure a 3-1 victory in their opening group-stage match at Loftus Stadium on Saturday.

“He influences, of course, because he is a Portuguese coach,” Santos said.

“It’s easier when you’re in Portugal or Europe; not many players come to South Africa. Having a Portuguese coach who speaks the same language makes things easier. He can advise me on how things work here—it’s much easier for me.”

The Portuguese midfielder also revealed why he ultimately chose to sign for Sundowns.

“What convinced me is that this is the biggest club in South Africa and one of the biggest in Africa,” he said.

“I felt that the club really wanted me, and when you feel that, it becomes much easier to make these kinds of decisions.”

Santos’s brace proved vital as Sundowns opened their Champions League group campaign with a win over the Congolese side, moving to the top of Group C with three points.

They next face Rulani Mokwena’s MC Alger away on Friday at 21:00.