Sundowns Defender Joins Simba SC

Tanzanian giants Simba SC have confirmed the signing of Rushine De Reuck on a permanent deal from Mamelodi Sundowns ahead of the new season.

The 29-year-old defender spent the second half of the 2024/25 campaign on loan at Israeli outfit Maccabi Petah Tikva FC, in search of ample game time with competition for places rife in the star-studded Downs squad.

Upon the end of his loan spell, De Reuck, seeking a fresh start, as he was not part of Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso’s plans, explored his options in Africa and caught the attention of Fadlu Davids’ side as he presented a perfect market opportunity.

The ball-playing center-back penned a one-year deal with an option to extend with the Reds of Msimbazi. The South African international comes in as a direct replacement for Che Malone, who has since signed for Algerian side USM Alger.

De Reuck will reunite with Davids, with the pair having worked together at Maritzburg United, now known as Durban City. Interestingly, the player won the Premier Soccer League (PSL) defender of the season award under the tutelage of Davids back in the 2019/20 term, and lost the Nedbank Cup final to Free State Stars in the 2017/18 season with the Team of Choice.

With the move to Simba, the Western Cape-born star has now closed his chapter with the South African champions after spending five seasons at Chloorkop, making 79 appearances and lifting seven trophies, including the African Football League [AFL].

In Tanzania, De Reuck will be part of Davids’ team that’s looking to topple fierce rivals Young Africans, who have clinched four consecutive championships. The South African tactician saw his side lose the league title in the final matchday last season.

In addition, Davids will be counting on his trusted compatriot to marshal the heart of Simba’s defense as the club is returning to the CAF Champions League. De Reuck has accumulated a vast amount of continental experience during his time with Masandawana.