Rulani Mokwena has expressed his satisfaction with Mamelodi Sundowns’ new signings, Thembinkosi Lorch, Tashreeq Matthews, Zuko Mdunyelwa and Matias Esquivel, revealing the boxes they tick.
Sundowns were one of the busiest sides in the PSL January transfer window as they bolstered their squad with four highly-rated new players as they look to continue to challenge for top honours.
The Tshwane giants started their DStv Premiership title on a great note. Midway through the 2023/24 season, Masandawana are at the summit of the log. To add, they are the only side that remains unbeaten. After 13 matches played, they’ve won 11 and drew two.
Heading to the second half of the campaign after the 2023 AFCON, Mokwena’s troops will be aiming to continue with their great form.
Mokwena says he’s hoping for immediate input from a player like Lorch. The former Orlando Pirates is an experienced campaigner at the age of 30 and well-versed in SA’s top flight.
WHAT RULANI MOKWENA EXPECTS FROM SUNDOWNS’ NEW SIGNINGS
As for Matthews, Mdunyelwa and Esquivel, the Sundowns coach, Mokwena, hopes the trio will help the team in the seasons to come. The three players are relatively young, and they are seen as the future at Chloorkop.
“In the long-term perspective, we want to have a team that is able to compete, not only compete in the immediate. But sustain the ability to perform and win trophies for an extended period of time,” said Mokwena.
“That means the bracket of the players that we try to incorporate in the squad are players that are a little bit younger, of course, and players that show incredible potential who we feel we can work hard on them to improve.
“Hopefully, in the next few years, they can give Mamelodi Sundowns a lot of success and sustained success. Tashreeq Matthews, Zuko Mdunyelwa and Matias Esquivel tick that box.
“Of course, when you have a player like Thembinkosi Lorch who’s available in the market and can give you immediate output and help the team to work towards its objectives, you have to try to see how that is possible.”
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