Sundowns have strengthened their squad with several new faces as they prepare for another demanding season.
The Brazilians have recruited from both the Betway Premiership and overseas, adding experience, youth and more depth to their squad.
The new arrivals include a returning star from Major League Soccer, players from domestic rivals and a permanent addition following a successful loan spell.
WHAT IS THE BACKGROUND OF CASSIUS MAILULA’S MAMELODI SUNDOWNS RETURN?
Cassius Mailula, the 25-year-old forward, has returned to Sundowns after his spell with Toronto FC in Canada.
The attacker previously broke through at Chloorkop’s academy before moving to Major League Soccer.
WHO IS SIYANDA NDLOVU?
Siyanda Ndlovu is a 22-year-old right winger who joined Sundowns from Lamontville Golden Arrows.
The young attacker adds pace and another option on the flanks. His arrival also fits Sundowns’ strategy of bringing promising South African talent into an already deep squad.
WHO IS ANTONIO VAN WYK?
Antonio van Wyk is a 24-year-old winger and attacking midfielder who arrives from Austrian club SV Ried.
The former Stellenbosch FC attacker has gained valuable experience in Europe and brings versatility to the Sundowns attack. He can operate in wide areas or play in a more advanced attacking role.
WHAT HAPPENED WITH KATLEGO NTSABELENG?
Katlego Ntsabeleng is a 28-year-old central and attacking midfielder whose move to Sundowns has now become permanent.
Ntsabeleng initially joined the Brazilians on loan from FC Dallas last season. His performances during that spell convinced Sundowns to make the move permanent, giving the club another versatile midfielder who can contribute in different areas.
WHO DID SUNDOWNS SIGN FROM ORLANDO PIRATES?
Deano van Rooyen is a 29-year-old right-back who joined Sundowns from Orlando Pirates on a free transfer.
The defender previously captained Stellenbosch FC and has built a reputation as a dependable right-back in the PSL.
WHAT ABOUT THABO CELE?
Thabo Cele is a 29-year-old central midfielder who made the move to Sundowns after leaving Kaizer Chiefs.
The midfielder has experience playing outside South Africa and brings another physical and energetic option to the Sundowns midfield. His arrival also increases competition for places in an area already packed with quality.
IS THABANG MATULUDI JOINING SUNDOWNS?
Thabang Matuludi is a 27-year-old right-back and defender who is set to join Sundowns after leaving Polokwane City.
However, the move has not yet received an official announcement from the club. Until Sundowns confirm the deal, Matuludi should be treated as an incoming player rather than a confirmed signing.
SO, WHO ARE THE SEVEN SIGNINGS?
The list currently contains seven unique names: Cassius Mailula, Siyanda Ndlovu, Antonio van Wyk, Katlego Ntsabeleng, Deano van Rooyen, Thabo Cele and Thabang Matuludi.
There is a simple reason the original list appeared to contain eight names. Cassius Mailula was listed twice, with Toronto FC and FC Toronto referring to the same club.
That means there are currently seven unique players on the list, while Thabang Matuludi remains subject to official confirmation. The identity of the eighth signing therefore still needs to be established.
