‘We are happy to have him’: Mngqithi excited about Sundowns’ latest signing
Mamelodi Sundowns coach Manqoba Mngqithi has seemingly confirmed the signing of Stellenbosch FC star Iqraam Rayners, expressing his delight at securing the services of the forward.
Mngqithi made the announcement during a post-match press conference on Sunday afternoon following Masandawana’s 1-0 victory over Polokwane City in the MTN8 quarterfinal at the Lucas Moripe Stadium.
The 53-year-old coach hinted at the imminent arrival of Rayners when he stated that the attacker would be a valuable asset to Sundowns in the new 2024/25 season
The Brazilians are said to have met the release clause for the 28-year-old forward. Furthermore, they also reached an agreement on personal terms with the player, who’s now set to move to Chloorkop.
Mngqithi believes Rayners will give his side a hefty shove in the CAF Champions League.
MANQOBA MNGQITHI COMMENTS IQRAAM RAYNERS-MAMELODI SUNDOWNS LINKS
“As for Iqraam, we are happy to have him because he will add something to the club,” said Mngqithi.
“I’m looking at him more for the Champions League than in the PSL. In as much as he will help us in the PSL, I think in the Champions League, he will really give us something more.”
Rayners might make his Sundowns debut against his soon-to-be former side, Stellies, as the two sides will face off in the MTN8 semi-finals, which will be contested over two legs.
Mngqithi further said that having Rayners, who knows Stellenbosch’s weaknesses, would be advantageous for Sundowns.
MNGQITHI SAYS ‘IT WILL BE NICE TO HAVE RAYNERS’ IN THE MTN8 CLASH AGAINST STELLENBOSCH
“And on the issue of Iqraam, by the way, it will be nice to have him,” he jokingly said.
Rayners was in top form in the maroon colours of Stellenbosch last season, scoring 17 goals, and registering four assists in 39 matches across all competitions.
He is the fifth signing for the Mngqithi-led side after Arthur de Oliveira Sales, Kobamelo Kodisang, Kegan Johannes and Asekho Tiwani.