Cardoso Provides Saleng Update Ahead Of Nedbank Cup Clash

Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has provided a positive update on the recovery of newly signed attacker Monnapule Saleng, while also detailing the club’s injury situation ahead of their Nedbank Cup round of 32 clash against Gomora United at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Wednesday.

Speaking as the Brazilians continue their preparations for the knockout fixture, Cardoso explained that Saleng is progressing well after his recent challenges, although patience will be required before supporters can expect to see him back on the pitch in competitive action.

“Saleng is recovering very positively,” Cardoso said.

“If you remember, I spoke negatively about Saleng. We may probably have him out for the next two months.

“I also want to take some pressure away from his recovery and himself. I believe it will not be necessary all the time.

“Eventually, he will come back to normal training. We have to understand if he’s feeling well physically and fitness-wise, capable of helping the team, and make him understand a few details on what we want from him.”

Saleng joined Sundowns during the January transfer window from Orlando Pirates, where he enjoyed a successful spell that saw him help the Buccaneers win five trophies, including three MTN8 Cups and two Nedbank Cups under Spanish coach Jose Riveiro.

Despite that success, the attacker endured a difficult period last season, last featuring in Pirates’ Carling Knockout round of 16 loss to Magesi, where he played only the first half before being sidelined for the remainder of the campaign amid reported issues at the club.

Before this season started, Pirates opted to loan Saleng to his former side, Orbit College, where he rediscovered some form in the first half of the campaign, scoring two goals and providing three assists in 12 appearances.

Saleng’s performances at Orbit and also Pirates convinced Sundowns to secure his services, adding depth and quality to their attacking options.

The Portuguese mentor also provided updates on several other players dealing with injuries ahead of the Gomora clash, offering a largely positive outlook.

“There are always small things for teams after the match, but I don’t think they’re important because they don’t take the players off the pitch,” Cardoso added.

“About injuries, I can start on Ronwen (Williams), he had a small injury, and it’s not a big thing, and we hope to have him soon. Williams is an important player for us because of his leadership, and for sure, he will be back soon.

“I think Denis (Onyango) also had something, but he will probably be ready for this match, and we trust him so much.

“Regarding Mothobi Mvala, he is a player who has undergone knee surgery, and we had him when the season started, but unfortunately, he had to go back to the surgery. He is in the last stage, and in two or three weeks, he will be back.

“We also have Zuko (Mdunyelwa), who unfortunately got an injury at training. It’s not a big thing about Zuko, but it’s something that will take him maybe one month and around that.”

After facing Gomora United on Wednesday, Sundowns will quickly shift their focus to continental action, as they travel to the Democratic Republic of Congo to take on Saint Eloi

Lupopo in a CAF Champions League group stage encounter.