Mamelodi Sundowns forward Arthur Sales has reflected on his first season in SA, having joined the Chloorkop-based outfit in July 2024.
The 22-year-old frontman joined Bafana Ba Style from Belgian side Lommel SK, where he had found the back of the net 10 times and contributed two assists in 24 league matches.
Since he arrived at Masandawana, the Brazilian-born striker has scored eight Betway Premiership goals and provided eight assists in 18 league appearances.
Overall, Sales has featured in 36 games across all competitions for Sundowns, scoring nine goals and weighing in with 10 assists. His stellar displays have helped Masandawana clinch their eighth consecutive PSL title.
He will be expected to play an important role in assisting Sundowns win their second CAF Champions League title when they face Pyramids FC in the finals.
WHAT ARTHUR SALES SAID ABOUT HIS FIRST CAMPAIGN IN THE PSL
Sales revealed how he was surprised by the warm welcome of the SA people and acknowledged that the atmosphere is totally different from how people from other parts of the world painted a picture of Africa.
He went on to express his delight at having won his first-ever league title in his football career with Sundowns.
“I was very surprised when I arrived because many people were very welcoming,” Sales told Radio 2000.
“How people from other European countries perceive South Africa is totally different. It’s actually an amazing country with proper infrastructure and facilities, where people actually have life outside football. So, you can actually enjoy other things because it’s a beautiful country, and it is my first time in Africa.”
Sales continued: “I’m very happy. This is my first trophy, I’m very proud and happy. I think now these two words [happy and proud] I have.
“This justifies my decision to come here in South Africa. I think the first objective was to go and play in the FIFA Club World Cup, and now I have gone to win the league also.”
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