Extra Time: Michael Madyira argues that tension between coach Manqoba Mngqithi and players Khuliso Mudau and Teboho Mokoena could bring the Brazilians crashing down.
Manqoba Mngqithi recently hinted at possible tension in the Mamelodi Sundowns camp when explaining why key players Khuliso Mudau and Teboho Mokoena were not selected for last weekend’s CAF Champions League match against Mbabane Swallows.
Both players are usually central to the team, but Mngqithi suggested they may have become complacent, believing they would always be picked.
“When you think you will play whenever you want to play, you will always have a problem,” Mngqithi said after the Swallows game.
The coach added that bringing them back into the squad would be tricky if the players in their positions were performing well, raising concerns about unity in the Sundowns dressing room.
While it may have been necessary to make changes after a disappointing MTN8 campaign, Mudau and Mokoena had just put in solid performances for Bafana Bafana during the international break.
Fans expected them to continue that form for Sundowns, but they were left out again in the Tshwane Derby against SuperSport United.
That time, Mngqithi said they were being rested despite the season just starting.
This explanation has led to speculation about the direction of the team, especially after reports that some senior players were unhappy when coach Rhulani Mokwena was let go.
Mokwena had always emphasised the importance of loyalty between players and coaches, and Sundowns’ recent struggles in the MTN8 hinted that some players might not be fully behind the current technical team.
For Sundowns to maintain their dominance in local football and pursue their continental goals, they need a united team pulling in the same direction.
Pictured above: Mamelodi Sundowns players celebrate against Mbabane Swallows.
Source: Mamelodi Sundowns
