Miguel Cardoso explains why Mamelodi Sundowns need squad depth

Sundowns have strengthened their squad with the recent arrivals of Thabang Matuludi and Thabo Cele, with both players already training with their new teammates.

Cele joined the African champions as a free agent after leaving Kaizer Chiefs, while Matuludi completed his move from Polokwane City. Neither player was included in Sundowns' matchday squad for Saturday's 1-1 Betway Premiership draw against Chippa United at Buffalo City Stadium.

Cardoso explained that Sundowns need a deep squad to manage the demands of playing regularly across domestic and international competitions.

"A team that plays so much needs, obviously, a deep squad," he said.

"In three days, we have to change seven or eight players, six or seven players, so that we can still have some freshness.

"Chippa rested all week, and we came here to play.

"If we could not bring freshness onto a pitch with these conditions, where, obviously, the level of fatigue increases a lot, we cannot survive.

"So we need to give answers to the conditions where we compete."

Matuludi and Cele are among several new faces at Chloorkop this season, alongside Antonio Van Wyk, Cassius Mailula, Deano Van Rooyen and Siyanda Ndlovu.

Van Rooyen is also still waiting to make his competitive debut for Sundowns, meaning Cardoso could soon have another batch of reinforcements available for selection.

The new arrivals could get their opportunity when Sundowns host Saudi Arabian giants Al-Ahli in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday.

With Sundowns facing a demanding run of fixtures, Cardoso will hope the increased competition for places gives him the flexibility to rotate his squad without compromising the team's performances.

The Brazilians will be aiming to maintain their challenge on all fronts, making squad depth increasingly important as the season progresses.