Mamelodi Sundowns have confirmed the exit of the talented midfielder Neo Maema, continuing their mass exodus for the 2025/26 season.
Maema’s departure comes a few hours after the Brazilians released Thembinkosi Lorch, who is set to join Wydad Casablanca on a permanent move.
The highly-rated winger has been a subject of speculation in the past few weeks after spending the second-half of the previous campaign on loan at Wydad.
Lorch made a good account of himself at the Red Castle and produced impressive performances during the FIFA Club World Cup in the USA two months ago. At the Club World Cup, Lorch showcased his ability to run at defenders and score goals after tormenting English Premier League giants Manchester City, and scored against Juventus FC.
On Thursday night, Masandawana announced the exit of Lorch, allowing him to join any club of his choice. The Bafana Bafana international joined Sundowns in January 2024 from rivals Orlando Pirates; however, the skilful attacker could not make a meaningful impact.
MAMELODI SUNDOWNS CUT TIES WITH MAEMA
Sundowns have made a decision on Maema, ending his four-year stint with the reigning Betway Premiership champions.
The 29-year-old signed with Downs at the start of the 2021/22 season from the now-defunct Bloemfontein Celtic. He made over 100 appearances across all competitions, scoring 13 goals and providing 14 assists.
Maema won a handful of major trophies with Sundowns, including four league titles, the Nedbank Cup, the MTN8, and the African Football League [AFL].
“After four incredible years, four league titles, one Nedbank Cup, one MTN8, one African Football League title, 120 appearances, 13 goals, and 14 assists, the Yellow Nation bid farewell to Neo Maema. We wish you success in the next chapter of your career,” Sundowns said on social media on Friday.
Meanwhile, the Tshwane giants have also released first-team players such as Rivaldo Coetzee, Sanele Tshabalala, Sifiso Ngobeni, Lebohang Maboe, Thabang Sibanyoni, Sipho Mbule, Matias Esquivel, and Lucas Suarez in the current transfer window.
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