Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Manqoba Mngqithi has made a bold claim about the club’s players this season.
Mngqithi returned to the hot seat after coach Rulani Mokwena shockingly left his post to join Moroccan giants Wydad Athletic Club.
Mngqithi works closely with Steve Komphela and Romain Folz, his assistant coaches, as they strive to improve upon the club’s performance from last season when they only secured the league title.
Last season, Mngqithi held the position of senior coach.
Due to their financial muscle, Sundowns has some of the best players in the Betway Premiership. This is evident as they have been a dominant force, winning the league title seven times in a row.
Ahead of the 2024/25 season, they will also be gunning for the league amongst other titles. This includes the Carling Knockout Cup, Nedbank Cup, CAF Champions League and the African Football League [AFL].
They have already lost out in the MTN8, where they suffered a defeat against Stellenbosch a few weeks ago in the two-legged semi-final.
WHAT MANQOBA MNGQITHI SAID ABOUT SUNDOWNS PLAYERS
The experienced mentor insists that there are no star players in his team, and consequently, no special treatment is given to any individual. If a player transgresses the club’s rules, Mngqithi does not hesitate to impose appropriate punishment.
“I don’t have star players, I’ve saw many good players messing their lives. I try to be very open and fair with everyone and offer advice where necessary,” said Manqoba Mngqithi.
“By the time I take a decision its usually after a long talk and I would know which direction to take. I’m the most transparent coach, when I’m unhappy with something I’m unhappy, and I make a decision, I’m that type of a coach.
“I’m not emotional, that’s one thing they must know. All these players are my kids, I’m old enough to be their father. If I decide to punish, I will punish just like how I will punish my child.
“When I punish its always after a long conversation, fortunately at this club I haven’t arrived at that situation.”
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