Mamelodi Sundowns are facing a decision on the future of striker Etiosa Ighodaro, who impressed on loan at Chippa United last season.
Ighodaro scored 11 goals and two assists in 27 appearances for Chippa, helping them to avoid relegation from the DStv Premiership. The 22-year-old Nigerian is now back at Sundowns, but his future at the club is uncertain.
He arrived on Tuesday at OR Tambo International Airport and started training with the DStv Premiership champions.
Sundowns have a number of strikers at their disposal, including Peter Shalulile, Thabiso Kutumela, Gift Motupa and Cassius Mailula, and new acquisition Lucas Ribeiro Costa. Ighodaro will need to impress coach Rulani Mokwena if he wants to break into the first team.
ETIOSA IGHODARO’S FUTURE UNCERTAIN
There was also interest in Ighodaro from other clubs in South Africa and abroad. French side Stade Rennais Football Club’s advances were, however, turned down by Sundowns.
Popularly referred to as Rennes, the Rennes-based club finished fourth in Ligue 1, and were eager to sign the Abuja College prodigy.
However, Sundowns made it clear the player was not for sale although they have no plans to use him at Chloorkop this coming season.
“There was solid interest in him from France, but Sundowns refused. So the French move won’t be happening. He’s likely to go to SuperSport for the coming season, although there is interest from other clubs.”
Chippa United are keen to keep him, but indications are that Sundowns are considering sending him to SuperSport United, who are also reportedly interested.
Since joining the Brazilians, Ighodaro has had loan spells at Pretoria University and the Chilli Boys. He reportedly has one year left on his contract and, depending on the nature of his next move, could be a free agent at the end of the 2023/24 season.
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