Mamelodi Sundowns are making strategic moves behind the scenes ahead of their FIFA Club World Cup campaign, with Argentine defender Lucas Suarez being quietly shown the door.
SUNDOWNS FREE UP FOREIGN SLOT
The club has opted not to extend Suarez’s stay beyond his six-month loan spell, freeing up a valuable foreign slot. The decision appears to be part of a bigger plan to bring in a new striker—likely from South America—as Sundowns renew their focus on bolstering their attack.
An insider confirmed, “The club has shifted attention back to South America in search of a forward. That’s partly why Suarez is being released.”
SUAREZ’S DIP IN FORM COST HIM
Suarez started brightly at Chloorkop, even featuring ahead of Malibongwe Khoza. However, his form dipped in crucial CAF Champions League games, where his defensive vulnerabilities were exposed. Despite initial backing from coach Miguel Cardoso, poor performances in the DStv Premiership eventually saw him lose his place.
TRANSFER TALKS ALREADY UNDERWAY
A club representative was reportedly spotted at the TransferRoom summit in Buenos Aires, where Sundowns engaged in discussions around potential new recruits. With Suarez’s loan ending and no permanent deal on the table, the club seems set on moving forward without him.
SHALULILE’S FUTURE ALSO UNCERTAIN?
Meanwhile, the future of talisman Peter Shalulile remains up in the air. Although the Namibian forward has travelled with the squad to the U.S. for the Club World Cup, the club is believed to be weighing up options in case he leaves—adding more urgency to their search for a new striker.
Sundowns fans can expect more shake-ups as the club sharpens its squad for the global stage.
