Mamelodi Sundowns have confirmed the signing of Cassius Mailula, with the forward returning to the club after three years away.
The 25-year-old has rejoined the Brazilians after spending the past three years with MLS side Toronto FC.
For weeks, there had been speculation that Mailula could return to Masandawana. With the departure of Peter Shalulile, his return allows the talented striker to finish what he started with the Tshwane giants.
“A familiar face returns to where it all began. Cassius Mailula is back in yellow, ready for a new chapter with The Brazilians. Masandawana, welcome him back in the comments,” Mamelodi Sundowns said on social media.
The Brazilians have been relatively quiet during this transfer window. Following the untimely passing of midfielder Jayden Adams, their pre-season was delayed, meaning they were unable to begin their Betway Premiership campaign last weekend.
Mailula’s arrival gives Sundowns another attacking option and adds more firepower to their frontline. He will compete alongside the likes of Tashreeq Matthews, Iqraam Rayners and Brayan León.
Mamelodi Sundowns re-signs Mailula
Before leaving Sundowns for Toronto FC in July 2023, Mailula enjoyed a breakthrough 2022/23 campaign, scoring 16 goals in 32 appearances across all competitions.
However, he made only a handful of appearances for Toronto before being loaned to Wydad Casablanca, where he played under former Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena.
His spell in Morocco proved successful, with the forward scoring important goals for the North African giants.
Mailula later had another loan spell in Belgium before eventually returning to Mamelodi Sundowns following the end of his time with Toronto FC.
The Bafana Bafana forward now has an opportunity to revive his career at the club where he first made his name and once again establish himself as one of the country’s most exciting attacking talents.