Mngqithi Endorses Ribeiro For The Coveted Footballer Of the Season Award
Golden Arrows head coach Manqoba Mngqithi has publicly thrown his weight behind Mamelodi Sundowns star Lucas Ribeiro Costa for the prestigious PSL Footballer of the Season award, following the Brazilian’s outstanding performance in the 2024/2025 campaign.
Mngqithi, who previously coached Ribeiro during his tenure at Mamelodi Sundowns after Rulani Mokwena’s departure, witnessed firsthand the forward’s exceptional talent and consistent contributions.
Despite being replaced by Miguel Cardoso in December due to inconsistent results – a change that has since seen Sundowns clinch the league title and reach the CAF Champions League final – the 54-year-old Mngqithi firmly believes his former player, Ribeiro, is the standout candidate.
With an impressive 16 goals, two more than his closest challenger, Igraam Rayners (14 goals), Ribeiro leads the league’s scoring charts.
“I think Lucas deserves it,” said Mngqithi.
“Iqraam is also close, but in my opinion, Lucas is probably at the top of the list to collect almost everything.”
The PSL Awards Ceremony has been postponed by the league due to Mamelodi Sundowns’ participation in the expanded 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in America.
The League is expected to communicate the new date for the event once Sundowns concludes their involvement in the international tournament.
