Mamelodi Sundowns three side lined stars are being targeted by Siwelele FC, the ambitious new outfit preparing for its first Betway Premiership campaign in 2025/2026
The club, which acquired SuperSport United’s top-flight status, has already kicked off training in Johannesburg and is working swiftly to shape a competitive squad.
Siwelele Targets Maema amid Sundowns snub
Among the prime targets is Neo Maema, the talented 29-year-old who began his professional journey at Bloemfontein Celtic. Despite his promise, Maema struggled for consistent game time under coach Miguel Cardoso last season.
He started just six matches, came off the bench 11 times, and appeared in 29 matchday squads from a possible 54 fixtures. Siwelele believes he could rediscover his form with regular football and the backing of a fresh project.
Mashego in the crosshairs after forgettable season
Siwelele have also inquired about Terrence Mashego, another Sundowns player who failed to break into the starting XI consistently. The former Cape Town City left-back played just seven games from the start and made six substitute appearances.
Coach Cardoso opted to deploy Divine Lunga and Aubrey Modiba ahead of Mashego, pushing the 28-year-old down the pecking order. Mashego’s exclusion from the squad that travelled to the FIFA Club World Cup only intensified speculation about his future.
Johannes struggles to impress at Chloorkop
Kegan Johannes, who made a high-profile move from SuperSport United, has found life difficult at Sundowns. The right-back, recovering from injury, managed just two starts and four substitute appearances all season. He remains behind Khuliso Mudau and Thapelo Morena in the pecking order.
Johannes also missed out on the Club World Cup trip, fuelling rumours that a loan or permanent move to Siwelele could offer him the opportunity to reignite his career.
While Siwelele is scouting talent from the Brazilians, several former SuperSport players are heading for the exit. Thulani Hlatshwayo is reportedly set to reunite with Gavin Hunt at Durban City FC. Meanwhile, veteran striker Bradley Grobler has joined Sekhukhune United, and Terrence Dzvukamanja is also set to move on.
Interestingly, a few unexpected names have surfaced during Siwelele’s pre-season. Jesse Donn, who retired from professional football last year, was seen participating in a training match, possibly hinting at a return.
Former SuperSport defender Buhle Mkhwanazi, who exited during the COVID-19 pandemic over vaccine concerns, is also back in the mix, along with ex-Kaizer Chiefs man Kamohelo Mahlatsi and former Pirates midfielder Xola Mlambo, who are both on trial.
Will Mamelodi Sundowns allow the trio to join Siwelele?
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