In a bid to revamp the squad for the 2025/26 Betway Premiership season, Mamelodi Sundowns have announced the departure of two long-serving midfielders, Lebohang Maboe and Rivaldo Coetzee.
The duo have been let go following the expiry of their respective contracts last month. In the second round of last season, Maboe joined SuperSport United on a short-term loan to revive his career, while Coetzee spent most of the time on the sidelines due to injury.
During his loan spell at SuperSport, the former Maritzburg United star, Maboe, played 16 matches in all competitions, scoring one goal and providing two assists.
The talented attacker was key for SuperSport as they marginally survived relegation in the last match of the season. But due to financial issues, SuperSport have since sold their status to Siwelele FC, a club that will be based in Bloemfontein for the upcoming season.
Maboe is leaving Sundowns, having joined the club in the 2017/18 campaign from Maritzburg United, now known as Durban City FC. The 30-year-old won a handful of major trophies at Sundowns, including the African Football League [AFL] in 2023.
SUNDOWNS CONFIRM DEPARTURES OF LONG-SERVING MIDFIELDERS
On Sunday morning, Masandawana confirmed the exit of Maboe and Coetzee, who were two of the longest-serving members of the squad.
“After 7 memorable years, 12 trophies, 183 appearances, and that unforgettable league hat-trick, the Yellow Nation bids farewell to Lebohang Maboe. Masandawana wishes you nothing but success as you enter your next chapter,” Sundowns said on social media.
Meanwhile, the Brazilians also bid farewell to utility player Rivaldo Coetzee, who spent eight years with the club. The Kakamas-born defender-cum-midfielder made over 130 appearances during his time at Sundowns and won 14 trophies.
“The Yellow Nation thanks Rivaldo Coetzee for eight years as Sandawana. After winning 14 trophies with the club and making over 130 appearances, the Mamelodi Sundowns family wishes you all the best in your next chapter,” Sundowns added.
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