Former Mamelodi Sundowns striker Cassius Mailula has expressed his desire to return to the club where he made his name, despite uncertainty surrounding his future.
The 24-year-old forward recently completed his loan spell at Belgian second-division side KV Kortrijk.
Although he remains under contract with Major League Soccer outfit Toronto FC, a return to the Premier Soccer League (PSL) appears increasingly likely.
Mailula enjoyed a breakthrough campaign with Sundowns during the 2022/23 season, scoring 16 goals in 32 appearances for the Tshwane giants before securing a move abroad.
With only six months remaining on his Toronto FC contract, the South African international could either be sent out on loan again or be released, allowing him to become a free agent.
Speaking to Andile Ncube on Metro FM, Mailula made it clear that a return to Sundowns would be his first choice instead of Kaizer Chiefs.
“I love Sundowns. Sundowns is home, you know. I think even the president and chairman know that it is my first love. Before I can think of other things and other teams, I will start with Sundowns,” he said.
The striker admitted that he would consider offers from other PSL clubs if a move back to Chloorkop fails to materialise.
“After that, if things don’t go well in terms of negotiations and all that, then I can start to think of other teams. But for me, Sundowns is my home,” he added.
Mailula eyeing Sundowns return
Sundowns are currently riding high after making history by winning the CAF Champions League, becoming the first South African club to lift the continental title on two occasions.
Mailula could face stiff competition for a place in Miguel Cardoso’s squad. With Brayan León and Iqraam Rayners currently the preferred options in attack, breaking back into the team may prove challenging should he return to the Brazilians.
