Bafana Bafana striker Lebo Mothiba has been offered a short-term contract by Mamelodi Sundowns. The 28-year-old arrived in SA on Saturday and is in talks with the reigning South African champions.
Mothiba, who recently underwent a trial at Wydad Athletic Club in Morocco, reportedly faced reservations from the North African club. However, his appearance at Sundowns’ Chloorkop training ground on Sunday fueled speculation about a potential return to his boyhood club.
Mothiba spent his formative years, from 2007 to 2009, at Masandawana before joining the Diambars Academy. While Kaizer Chiefs have previously expressed interest, he has consistently stated his preference for a return to Sundowns. The club’s participation in the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup further enhances its appeal.
Mothiba has been sidelined for an extended period due to injury. He missed the 2024 AFCON and recognises that excelling at Sundowns would significantly boost his chances of regaining his place in the national team. Bafana have already qualified for the 2025 AFCON and resume the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in March.
DETAILS OF LEBO MOTHIBA’S MAMELODI SUNDOWNS OFFER
Reliable sources indicate that Sundowns have proposed a six-month contract to Mothiba, keeping him at the club until the end of the current season. This short-term agreement allows both parties to evaluate Mothiba’s fitness and form before considering a longer-term commitment. The decision now lies with the striker.
Mothiba’s arrival at Chloorkop comes at a critical juncture for Sundowns, who are currently engaged in multiple competitions, including the Betway Premiership, the Nedbank Cup, and the CAF Champions League.
Newly appointed coach Miguel Cardoso understands the demand to challenge for the CAF Champions League. The addition of the experienced Mothiba would undoubtedly strengthen Sundowns’ attacking options and provide valuable depth to their squad.
This move could also revitalise Mothiba’s career after his prolonged injury absence. A successful spell at Sundowns could revive his international prospects and potentially attract interest from other clubs in the future.
The former RC Strasbourg striker has been without a club since leaving the French side early in 2024. He was linked with several clubs, including a potential return to Europe.
Prior to his trial with Wydad, Mothiba had a brief spell with Karlsruher SC in Germany. He was also linked with a move to Standard Liège in Belgium, but the transfer ultimately failed to materialise due to disagreements over personal terms.
