Mamelodi Sundowns has made a major shift in their technical team, parting ways with head coach Manqoba Mngqithi and bringing Portuguese coach Miguel Cardoso on board, just four months into the season. Despite leading the Betway Premiership, the club’s management was dissatisfied with performances in key cup competitions, notably the MTN8 and Carling Knockout. These results, combined with a challenging start in the CAF Champions League, signalled the need for change.

Why Mamelodi Sundowns Fired Manqoba Mngqithi:

Underperformance in Cup Competitions: Disappointing results in the MTN8 and Carling Knockout.
Struggles in the CAF Champions League: A difficult start highlighted the need for a fresh approach.
Club’s High Standards and Ambitions: Recent performances did not align with Sundowns’ identity of playing attractive, successful football.
Complacency Concerns: Mngqithi’s tenure was viewed by some as lacking the drive required to maintain the club’s high standards.

A Move Aligned with Club Ideals

Chairman Tlhopie Motsepe explained the decision, emphasising that Sundowns’ reputation is built on playing “attractive, entertaining, and successful football.” This identity has helped the club earn its beloved moniker, “Bafana Ba Style.” Motsepe stressed that the team’s recent struggles to meet the club’s high standards led the board to restructure the coaching staff.

“It was not an easy decision,” Motsepe admitted. “Coach Mngqithi and Coach Wendell Robinson have served the club for over 22 years combined, contributing significantly during its most successful periods. But we needed to pursue a new direction.”

Cardoso’s Appointment and the New Era

Motsepe expressed confidence in Cardoso’s ability to lead the team to greater heights, citing his leadership qualities and desire for success. The club also remains committed to developing local talent, which is reflected in retaining Steve Komphela as an assistant coach and Kennedy Mweene as the goalkeeper coach.

Mixed Reactions from Fans

The decision has prompted varied responses among supporters. Some fans praised the move, citing concerns that Mngqithi had become complacent and was steering the team towards a less ambitious approach. Others criticised the club’s previous decision to let go of Rhulani Mokwena, believing it to be a mistake.

Fan Comments:

“Mngqithi was too comfortable at Sundowns; we were heading towards a Kaizer Chiefs-like approach. Good move by management!” – Christopher Kgolane Thobejane
“At least Cardoso can speak English, unlike Nabi. Hopefully, he can communicate better with the players.” – Feather Nails
“I knew this wouldn’t last. Mngqithi had lost his spark, and it was only a matter of time.” – Yahya Kantunda
“They made a blunder when they let go of Mokwena, but let’s see what Cardoso brings to the table.” – Mkhanyisi Ndlanga
“I hope our young players get more game time under Cardoso; they were thriving under Mngqithi.” – Saam Ka Langalibalele

The club’s future with Cardoso at the helm is now a topic of intense speculation, as fans await to see if he can navigate the club’s aspirations and lead them to new victories in domestic and continental competitions.