The 22-year-old joined the Brazilians from SuperSport United in 2023 and after an initial bright start, subsequently struggled to secure regular game-time.
Maseko spent the previous season on loan with Cypriot side AEL Limassol, where he scored twice and added one assist in 15 matches.
Cardoso offered the player the opportunity to revive his Sundowns career, but after extended talks, it was made clear that Maseko is eager to explore his options elsewhere.
Speaking after his side's MTN8 quarter-final win over Polokwane City, Cardoso said on iDiski Times: "Very simple and very objective. First of all, between coach Miguel and Thapelo Maseko, there is no issues. Yesterday I had a beautiful talk with Maseko.
"When I was asked from inside the club to discuss the situation of Maseko, obviously we had to understand if he wants to stay with us or no. Because I don't want to work with players that don't want to be part of our group.
"So, my question on Thapelo even yesterday I asked him, 'Look, my heart is open for you, the team is open for you if you want to join us and stay open heart with us'.
"Obviously, when the player says but I wanna go to other places, then it becomes a club's question, and not a coach's question.
"So, I'm not deep inside the conversation that happens so I cannot give more explanations. Rather we say, Thapelo is a wonderful boy. We like him very much.
"Me and him we exchanged message throughout the whole competition [World Cup] and I think I even helped him on how to put more energy to what he was doing."
Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso says his side must improve their defending from set-pieces after needing an extra-time winner to see off Polokwane City in their MTN8 quarter-final.
Cassius Mailula came off the bench to net the winner as Mamelodi Sundowns beat Polokwane City 3-2 after extra-time to advance to the MTN8 semi-finals at the Lucas Moripe Stadium on Saturday evening.
Polokwane City skipper Puleng Marema is determined to make the most of the club's MTN8 opportunity as he continues his quest for a first major trophy in South Africa's top flight.
Mamelodi Sundowns defender Aubrey Modiba believes the Brazilians can use Polokwane City's early competitive outing to their advantage when the two sides meet in the MTN8 quarter-finals.
