Clayton Daniels highlights similarities in form of Sundowns and Real Madrid
Former PSL defender Clayton Daniels has highlighted the similarities in form between Mamelodi Sundowns and Real Madrid in the current season.
The ex-Ajax Cape Town [now known as Cape Town Spurs] player believes that Bafana Ba Style are merely experiencing a transition period since they have a new coach and introduced new players to the squad.
In the new season, Masandawana have brought in the likes of Arthur Sales, Iqraam Rayners, Kobamelo Kodisang, Kegan Johannes, and Asekho Tiwani.
This follows the Chloorkop-based outfit’s failure to secure the MTN8 title and the Carling Knockout Cup under the guidance of Manqoba Mngqithi, who took over the head coach role from the departed Rulani Mokwena, now the mentor of Moroccan giants Wydad Athletic.
However, in the Betway Premiership, Sundowns are at the summit of the log, edging out Orlando Pirates based on a superior goal difference. They boast an impressive record of seven wins and only one defeat in eight games.
On the other hand, Madrid find themselves in second place in La Liga, trailing leaders Barcelona by four points after 15 matches. Their record stands at 10 wins, three draws, and two losses. Furthermore, Madrid’s UEFA Champions League campaign has been underwhelming, with three defeats in their five matches thus far.
CLAYTON DANIELS DRAWS PARALLELS BETWEEN MAMELODI SUNDOWNS AND REAL MADRID
While acknowledging Sundowns’ strong squad, the 40-year-old defender stressed the need for a mental shift to overcome the club’s recent setbacks.
He drew a parallel to Real Madrid, who, despite their strength, are also facing challenges. Citing Kylian Mbappé as an example, he noted that even top players require time to adapt and build chemistry with their teammates.
Similarly, Sales, a recent addition to the Sundowns squad, is still finding his feet at the club.
“If you look at Sundowns, they have quality all around. But even if you have quality, you can still lose games. Look at Real Madrid; they are also going through the same phase,” said Daniels in an interview with FARPost.
“Madrid have brought in new players, like Kylian Mbappé, but they are still struggling a bit. The same goes for Sundowns; they lost a coach who was already successful with them, Rulani Mokwena.
“They lost a coach before Rulani, Pitso Mosimane, who was also very successful. So, it’s a transition period for them. Even though they have quality players, it’s a transition in mindset.”
THE PRESENT IS WHAT THEY MUST FOCUS ON, SAYS CLAYTON DANIELS
Daniels, who is currently playing for ABC Motsepe League team Crystal Palace FC, emphasised that Sundowns players need to focus on the future and let go of the past, as dwelling on it could hinder their performance.
“I know coach Manqoba Mngqithi has been in the PSL for quite some time and is very experienced. They also have coach Steve Komphela, who is also experienced. It’s unfortunate what they are going through. They [players] just have to change their mindset because the past is the past, and the present is what they must focus on,” added the ex-Sundowns defender.
“There’s a different voice and a different leader there now. They must follow the coach and give him the same respect they gave to other coaches. If they want to be successful, they must change their mindset at the end of the day.”
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