Cassius Mailula returns to familiar grounds for MLS revival
South African striker Cassius Mailula has returned to familiar grounds after a slow start to life in Major League Soccer [MLS] with Toronto FC.
The 22-year-old joined Toronto FC in July 2023 from Mamelodi Sundowns but struggled to make an impact in the MLS, making only three appearances for the club.
Cassius Mailula has returned to South Africa during the MLS offseason and is using Sundowns’ facilities to maintain his fitness and keep his hopes of returning to the Bafana Bafana squad alive.
Bafana coach Hugo Broos recently hinted he will snub the Limpopo-born star from the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) due to his limited playing time at Toronto FC. ‘Cash’ saw less than 70 minutes of action across three appearances, overshadowed by international stars like Lorenzo Insigne, Federico Bernardeschi, and Deandre Kerr.
Broos expressed disappointment with Mailula’s situation, stating, “Let’s hope it will change for him next season.”
The coach further highlighted Mailula’s predicament as the MLS season had concluded, saying, “Mailula is a problem. The competition is finished now in the US, and what is he going to do?”
CASSIUS MAILULA DETERMINED TO SUCCEED IN NORTH AMERICA
A source close to him told FARPost that he had sought permission to use their gym and training facilities during his off-season. He was spotted at Chloorkop last week. Mailula is determined to prove himself in North America and get back into the national team.
He would have used his first season in the MLS to adapt to life and the style of play. Mailula is expected to return to Toronto FC in January for the start of the MLS preseason.
The next MLS season roars to life on 25 February 2024 and will offer Mailula an opportunity to revive his career. His counterparts Bongokuhle Hlongwane and Njabulo Blom had exciting seasons in the US.
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