Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso addresses player futures amid MTN8 success

Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has remained diplomatic amid growing uncertainty surrounding the futures of key players Lucas Ribeiro Costa, Peter Shalulile and Khuliso Mudau following their absence from Sunday’s MTN8 quarter-final clash.

The Brazilians powered their way into the semi-finals with a commanding 4-0 win over Richards Bay at Lucas Moripe Stadium. 

A brace from Iqraam Rayners, a stunner from teenage prodigy Siyabonga Mabena, and a deflected own goal by Simphiwe Mcineka, ensured Downs continued their winning start under the Portuguese tactician.

Their reward?

A two-legged semi-final tie against fierce rivals Orlando Pirates, with Stellenbosch and Sekhukhune United set to contest the other side of the draw. But despite the emphatic display, much of the post-match discussion centred around the notable omissions from the matchday squad.

Shalulile, Ribeiro and Mudau were all missing, sparking speculation amid ongoing reports linking the trio with moves away from Chloorkop. 

Ribeiro, the reigning Footballer of the Season and top scorer, has been heavily linked with Qatari SC and Fluminense in Brazil. Shalulile, meanwhile, is said to be in negotiations with Tunisian giants Esperance, while Mudau has yet to commit to a new contract with the defending champions.

Cardoso, however, opted for a composed response when questioned on the matter.

“All those things are being sorted out by the club and I’m sure they will be public in proper time,” Cardoso said, after the game.

“I understand what’s happening with Lucas, Peter, or Thapelo Morena, who was not here  because he had a small injury. But as a coach, I would want to have the team as complete as possible, and all coaches want to receive reinforcements for the new season as quickly as possible.”

With Downs already juggling a busy start to the season, Cardoso acknowledged the reality of player movement — but made it clear the standard at Chloorkop will not drop, regardless of who’s available.

“So, it’s not where we are, but it doesn’t mean we can’t cope with our responsibilities. As a coach, I have to work on solutions rather than problems.”

“It’s obvious that we would have loved to start the season where we ended with all the players, but no one should think that Mamelodi Sundowns will be at a level that it shouldn’t be in. I’m sure the people in charge will take responsibility to organise the issues in a proper time.”

While the wait continues for official word on the trio’s futures, Cardoso has already demonstrated depth and adaptability in the squad — with new arrivals and rising stars like Mabena stepping up. 

With Pirates on the horizon in the MTN8 semis and the Betway Premiership title defence underway, the focus at Chloorkop is clear: stay dominant, stay ready — with or without their biggest names.