Mamelodi Sundowns defender Rushine De Reuck could still secure his loan exit, with reports suggesting that head coach Miguel Cardoso has approved his departure. Sundowns initially rejected an approach from Sekhukhune United for the defender’s loan move.
However, the situation seems to have changed. De Reuck reportedly reached out to the Portuguese coach, seeking a release to secure more playing time elsewhere.
Cardoso, who apparently prefers to work with a smaller squad, has given the 28-year-old player the green light to pursue a potential loan move.
De Reuck was a pivotal figure for both Sundowns and Bafana Bafana following his arrival from Maritzburg United. But, last season, he found himself on the sidelines, featuring in just five matches for the first team. His influence dwindled significantly after a promising start partly because of a long injury layoff.
In the current season, De Reuck had hoped for more game time to reclaim his place in the team. Unfortunately, he has made just three appearances out of a possible 25.
Currently, Cardoso relies on Grant Kekana, Mosa Lebusa, and the emerging talent Malibongwe Khoza in the heart of defence. Mothobi Mvala will likely be ahead in the pecking order as he nears a return from injury.
In addition, the club is close to signing Argentinian defender Lucas Suarez, a left-footed centre-back. The 29-year-old has agreed to join Masandawana on a six-month loan deal with an option to make the arrangement permanent.
WHERE COULD RUSHINE DE REUCK BE HEADED?
There are indications of potential interest from overseas clubs, presenting the chance for De Reuck to revive his career. The former Maritzburg United defender spent some time in the youth structures of Paços de Ferreira before returning home.
While Sundowns remains open to a loan-to-buy arrangement, the final deal will hinge on the agreement of terms by all parties involved. De Reuck is eager to return to the national team fold with the FIFA World Cup qualifiers resuming in March.
Bafana also qualified for the AFCON 2025 edition, which will be hosted in Morocco between December 2025 and January 2026.
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