The move had been reported in recent days. Sundowns have moved quickly to secure one of the most exciting fullbacks in the Betway Premiership.
The club has now confirmed the transfer, putting an end to the speculation surrounding the defender’s future.
WHY HAVE SUNDOWNS SIGNED THABANG MATULUDI?
“Mamelodi Sundowns are excited to welcome Thabang Matuludi to the Masandawana family! Yellow Nation, let’s welcome him in the comments,” the club announced.
He becomes the seventh signing after Antonio van Wyk, Cassius Mailula, Katlego Ntsabeleng (loan made permanent), Siyands Ndlovu, Deano Van Rooyen and Thabo Cele.
Matuludi arrives at Sundowns after establishing himself as one of the standout right backs in South African football.
His performances for Polokwane City earned him international recognition and ultimately a place in the Bafana Bafana setup.
The 27 year old has enjoyed a remarkable rise after starting his football journey in grassroots football in Limpopo.
Born on 14 January 1999 in Dennilton, Limpopo, Matuludi began his football journey at Kgahlanamorulana Secondary School in the Sekhukhune District.
He initially played as a winger before eventually moving into a defensive fullback role while playing for his teacher’s club in Jane Furse.
His early senior career took place in the ABC Motsepe League. He represented amateur clubs King Born and The Dolphins.
His big breakthrough came in 2021 when Polokwane City spotted his potential and brought him into the club.
At Polokwane City, Matuludi became an important part of the defence and helped the club earn promotion to the top flight ahead of the 2023/24 season.
He continued to develop in the Betway Premiership, where his defensive strength, work rate and ability to attack from deep made him one of the league’s most exciting fullbacks.
His performances eventually earned him his first senior Bafana Bafana call up for the 2024 COSAFA Cup.
Matuludi made his debut against Mozambique and played every minute of the tournament.
His form continued to impress national team coach Hugo Broos, who included him in the squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
He then reached another major milestone when Broos selected him for South Africa’s squad at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The defender now takes the next major step in his career with Sundowns.
The move also represents another statement of intent from Sundowns, who have added a proven Bafana Bafana international to an already strong squad.
For Matuludi, the journey from grassroots football in Limpopo to the ABC Motsepe League, Bafana Bafana and now Mamelodi Sundowns represents a remarkable rise in South African football.
