‘Proud To Be Yellow’: Van Wyk
Mamelodi Sundowns’ newly signed forward Antonio van Wyk has described his move to the Tshwane giants as an exciting new chapter in his career after completing a transfer from Austrian Bundesliga side SV Ried.
The 24-year-old attacker was officially unveiled by the Brazilians on Tuesday, becoming the club’s first signing under head coach Miguel Cardoso ahead of the new season.
Van Wyk joins Sundowns after spending two seasons in Austria with SV Ried, having moved from Stellenbosch at the start of the 2024/25 campaign. His time in Europe proved to be a significant period in his development, both on and off the field.
In his first season with Ried, the South African forward made an immediate impact, helping the club secure promotion from Austria’s second division to the Bundesliga. He remained a key figure during the 2025/26 season as the club successfully preserved its top-flight status.
During his final campaign with Ried, Van Wyk was joined by fellow South African Yusuf Maart, who arrived from Kaizer Chiefs. The duo featured regularly together and played an important role in ensuring the club remained in the Bundesliga.
Van Wyk leaves the Austrian outfit having made 53 appearances in all competitions, scoring four goals and providing seven assists.
Reflecting on his experience abroad and his return to South African football, Van Wyk said his spell in Europe had been invaluable to his growth as both a player and a person.
“Spending time away in Europe has been an incredible experience that helped me grow as a footballer and as a person,” he said.
“This is one of the biggest clubs on the continent – a club with a rich history, high standards, and a winning culture.
“To the supporters, your passion for this club is unmatched, and I cannot wait to experience that on match day. I’m excited for this journey. My name is Antonio van Wyk, and I’m proud to be Yellow.”
At Sundowns, Van Wyk will reunite with former Stellenbosch teammates Iqraam Rayners, Jayden Adams, and Fawaz Basadien. The quartet previously enjoyed success together in the Cape Winelands, helping Stellenbosch lift the Carling Knockout title in 2023.
The move marks a return to the Betway Premiership for Van Wyk, who will now look to build on the experience gained in Europe as he aims to help Sundowns compete for domestic and continental honours in the upcoming season.
