Sundowns fuel speculation with possible return of Mosimane as Cardoso’s tenure wanes

Miguel Cardoso’s tenure as Mamelodi Sundowns’ head coach seems to be approaching its grand finale!

Several unconfirmed media reports about Pitso Mosimane’s potential return have been buzzing recently. Media figures who claim to be close to insiders at Chloorkop say Sundowns are seriously considering reuniting with the man who once transformed the club into a true football powerhouse.

These sources reveal that discussions are in full swing, and there might even be a final decision before the Africa Cup of Nations wraps up on Sunday. Things have shifted from mere speculation to concrete action.

Since Cardoso stepped in, the season has been a rollercoaster, with outcomes not quite reaching the high expectations set. Sundowns, typically the dominant force in domestic football for many years, have shown a hint of vulnerability and strayed from their usual rhythm.

Cardoso led the team to an incredible eighth consecutive league title last season. Still, this year’s challenges have been a whole new ballgame, leading to dwindling patience among fans and leaders alike.

Currently, Sundowns are trailing Orlando Pirates by a slim two points in the Premiership, having played one match more. With 26 points from 13 games, the pressure is on as Pirates hold a slight edge.

As the Pirates continue to impress, the board believes a swift change could be crucial to reviving the title chase!

Cardoso’s track record tells an interesting story. Over 397 days at the helm, his longest coaching stint, he managed 55 matches, winning 34, drawing 13, and losing only eight. Impressive, but for a club that sets its sights higher, it hasn’t reached the mark yet!

Lately, the excitement ramped up when Cardoso altered his social media bio, replacing “Mamelodi Sundowns Head Coach” with “Official account of Football Manager.” It was an intriguing move.

Mosimane enjoyed an impressive eight-year run with Sundowns, during which he collected nearly every trophy available, including the coveted 2016 CAF Champions League. His journey later took him to Egyptian giants Al Ahly, where he added two more Champions League titles to his illustrious collection!

Insiders have shared that Patrice Motsepe, the esteemed CAF president and owner of Sundowns, is now playing a key role, advocating for Cardoso’s dismissal and eyeing Mosimane as the perfect fit to lead the charge.

If it all comes to pass, Mosimane could take the reins fully, handpicking his technical team and overseeing player signings as part of a thrilling five-year plan aimed at conquering the Club World Cup, dominating Africa, and supporting Bafana Bafana.

Mosimane’s agent (and wife!), Moira Tlhagale has confirmed that conversations are indeed happening, hinting that an announcement could be on the horizon. Despite earlier reports of advanced negotiations, nothing has been finalised just yet.