Sundowns’ Rushine De Reuck loaned to Maccabi Petah Tikva
Mamelodi Sundowns defender Rushine De Reuck is set to jet off to Israel, where he will spend the remainder of the 2024/25 season on loan at Maccabi Petah Tikva.
Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso sanctioned the move after talks with the defender. De Reuck had initially faced a setback when Sundowns denied a proposed loan transfer to Sekhukhune United. Maccabi Petah Tikva’s six-month loan proposal for De Reuck, which includes a fee paid to Sundowns, was accepted.
The agreement is contingent upon the player passing a routine medical examination and securing the required paperwork. Notably, the deal includes an option to buy, with terms to be reviewed at the end of the season.
WHY MACCABI PETAH TIKVA STINT WILL BE IMPORTANT FOR RUSHINE DE REUCK
The South African international moved to Masandawana in January 2021 after impressing for Maritzburg United. Formerly on the books of FC Parcos in Portugal, he became a vital cog in the Downs backline and Bafana Bafana’s.
However, his impact faded after a strong start, mainly due to a lengthy injury absence. Last season, he spent most of the time on the bench, playing only five matches for the first team.
De Reuck hoped for more playing time this season to earn his spot back on the team, but he has only appeared in three of the 25 matches he has been eligible for.
Currently, Cardoso relies on Grant Kekana, Mosa Lebusa, and rising star Malibongwe Khoza. Mothobi Mvala, who is approaching his return from injury, is also likely to be prioritised.
Furthermore, the club is close to signing Argentinian defender Lucas Suarez, a left-footed centre-back. The 29-year-old has agreed to a six-month loan deal with an option for a permanent transfer.
With Bafana set to resume the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, De Reuck hopes to impress and return to the national team fold. The Israeli stint offers him a chance to revive his career and return to Bafana.
WHAT CARDOSO SAID ABOUT EUROPE OPPORTUNITIES FOR SUNDOWNS PLAYERS
On Thursday, the Portuguese mentor told journalists that Sundowns committed to seeking opportunities for players with limited playing time in Europe.
“We retain players because we believe finding solutions within the PSL might be challenging at times, not because we lack concern for their careers,” Cardoso said. “In the coming months, expect us to explore possibilities abroad and possibly facilitate moves to Europe, which will also help promote the club’s brand.”
RELATED STORY: Cardoso gives greenlight to De Reuck loan move