Mamelodi Sundowns announce more exits as Miguel Cardoso continues to trim squad

The reigning Betway Premiership champions made the announcement on Monday, just a day after parting ways with long-serving stalwarts Rivaldo Coetzee and Lebohang Maboe.

Among the latest names to exit Chloorkop is Brazilian forward Lucas Suarez, whose departure had long been anticipated. Suarez has returned to his parent club CA Talleres in Argentina after Sundowns opted not to make his loan move permanent.

While the 30-year-old showed flashes of creativity and goal-scoring threat during his stint in the PSL, he ultimately struggled for consistency and failed to establish himself as an undisputed starter in a highly competitive attacking unit.

Downs also confirmed the exit of midfielder Sipho Mbule, who has already been unveiled by rivals Orlando Pirates following the termination of his contract.

Once tipped as a future star of South African football, Mbule endured a difficult spell at Sundowns, plagued by disciplinary issues and a lack of regular game time.

His move to Pirates represents a fresh start, and perhaps a final chance to reignite a promising career that had stalled at Chloorkop.

Further cuts include striker Thabang Sibanyoni, left-back Sifiso Ngobeni, and goalkeeper Sanele Tshabalala, all of whom struggled to cement regular first-team roles under previous coaches.

The trio had been on the fringes of the squad and spent considerable time out on loan, with limited impact upon their returns.

In announcing the exits, Sundowns stated that the changes were part of a broader strategy to trim the squad and allow for more flexibility heading into the new season.

Cardoso has made it clear that he intends to streamline the team and focus on a more balanced and dynamic group as Sundowns look to remain competitive both domestically and on the continent.