Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has added more fuel to the reports of his exit. Is Pitso Mosimane making the sensational return?
As reported by South Africa’s Journalist of the Year, Mthokozisi Dube, on FARPost, Mosimane is set to replace Cardoso.
MIGUEL CARDOSO SENDS CRYPTIC MESSAGE ON HIS INSTAGRAM?
The Portuguese, who replaced Manqoba Mngqithi in December 2024, shared David Bowie lyrics: “I don’t know where I’m going from here, but I promise it won’t be boring.”
The former Esperance coach’s first half of the 2025/26 season has been far from dismal. Sundowns are placed in second position behind Orlando Pirates.
Cardoso’s team has seven wins, five draws and just one defeat. Standout performances included a 3–0 win over Magesi FC and a 4–1 victory over a solid Richards Bay FC side.
PRESSURE OVER THE MAMELODI SUNDOWNS PLAYING STYLE
Despite those results, unease has grown among sections of the Sundowns fanbase. Supporters and pundits alike have questioned whether the club’s trademark “shoe shine and piano” identity has faded.
Additionally, Cardoso’s cup record has done nothing to help his cause. Sundowns have faced early elimination in several cup competitions.
The MTN8 ended in a semi-final penalty shootout loss to Orlando Pirates, and they were knocked out of the Carling Knockout Cup in the Round of 16, also via a penalty shootout, by Marumo Gallants.
Their focus has now shifted to the CAF Champions League, where they have successfully advanced to the Group stages.
Sundowns opened with a solid 3–1 victory over FC Saint-Eloi Lupopo in Group C on November 22, 2025. The following game was a 0–0 draw against Rulani Mokwena’s MC Alger on November 28, 2025.
WHAT THE CHAIRMAN SAID
Meanwhile, the club’s chairman, Tlhopie Motsepe, recently admitted a drop in dominance. “As the year closes, we find ourselves in a position. It is unfamiliar in recent seasons,” he told Sundowns Magazine in December.
“While we may not be where we aspire to be at this point. History has taught us that league titles are decided in May, not December,” the Sundowns boss said.
“What has sustained this Club through every era will continue to guide us, the unwavering support of Masandawana. Unity within the Yellow Family will always be our greatest strength,” he added.