Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena has urged the club’s fans to be patient with winger Lebisa Nku, comparing his development to that of Real Madrid star Luka Modric.

When Modric joined Real Madrid from Tottenham Hotspur in 2012, he initially faced criticism from some fans. However, under coach Jose Mourinho, Modric’s talent blossomed, and he went on to become one of the club’s most important players. Now wearing the prestigious number 10 jersey, Modric has achieved immense success at Real Madrid, winning five UEFA Champions League titles, four La Liga championships, and five FIFA Club World Cups.

Mokwena believes similar patience is needed with Nku, who joined Sundowns from Marumo Gallants at the beginning of the season. Nku has shown promise in recent games, including his assist for Peter Shalulile’s winning goal against Royal AM in the DStv Premiership match on Saturday.

“There was a moment when Jose Mourinho was coaching Real Madrid, and he asked the fans to be patient with Luka Modric,” Mokwena said after the game. “Modric went on to become one of the best players in Real Madrid’s history. I’m asking Sundowns supporters to be patient with Lesiba Nku. He’s very special, but he just needs time. They will see why we signed him.”

With Shalulile’s late goal from Nku’s assist, Sundowns extended their unbeaten league run to 27 matches and sit atop the table with 66 points. They are aiming to become the first team in the PSL era to go the entire season without a league defeat.

However, Mokwena downplayed the talk of an undefeated season, stating, “No, because they don’t come with trophies and no one cares.”