Mamelodi Sundowns star Lucas Ribeiro Costa has penned an emotional farewell message to the club, all but confirming his impending departure from the Tshwane giants.
In the message, the Brazilian expressed regret about the circumstances of his departure, stating, “I wish I could’ve said goodbye in a better way.”
Over the past few weeks, Ribeiro has been the subject of intense speculation as he seeks a move away from the club during the current transfer window.
The highly-rated attacker has been a notable absentee from the Sundowns squad since the beginning of the 2025/26 Betway Premiership season. As previously reported by FARPost, Ribeiro left the team during their pre-season camp to negotiate with potential suitors after his impressive performances at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in the USA a few months ago.
Ribeiro has been linked with a move to Qatar SC, but a deal never materialised, and the matter is now reportedly heading to legal arbitration as the Brazilian player approached FIFA through his legal team in an effort to force his transfer away from Downs.
It is said that the Qatar Stars League club had made a “particularly generous transfer offer,” but it appears no agreement could be reached. However, in a statement last month, Sundowns claimed that their goal during negotiations was to be “fair and just” to both the player and the club.
“The objective of Sundowns in these discussions and negotiations has always been to advance the interests of the player and the club and to be fair and just,” the club said. “We also want to contribute to the fulfilment of the interests of all parties.”
Last season, Ribeiro made 51 appearances across all competitions for Masandawana, scoring 21 goals and providing 14 assists. After his outstanding season, Ribeiro was named the PSL Footballer of the Season, Player’s Player of the Season, and Golden Boot winner at the 2025 PSL awards.
Amid his push for a transfer, the 26-year-old midfielder took to social media on Monday to pay tribute to Sundowns and thank them for the opportunity.
WHAT LUCAS RIBEIRO SAID TO MAMELODI SUNDOWNS
“From the very first day I arrived, I gave my all, on and off the field, to earn my place and proudly defend Mamelodi Sundowns,” said Ribeiro.
“These past two years have been incredible, full of emotions. I have learned so much from this beautiful culture-not only to become a better player, but also a better human being.
“To my wonderful Masandawana supporters, first of all, thank you for everything. I want you to know that your support and love meant so much to me, and I will never forget you. I will always carry in my heart the memories of the emotions I lived, the goals, the assists, the trophies, and the magical nights with you that made me feel at home. And I wish I could have said goodbye in a better way, but please know that my love for you is endless.
“I am grateful to all the coaches who were part of this beautiful story. I will always appreciate each of you. To my teammates, my second family, thank you for every battle, every title won, every smile, and every moment we shared. You will always be my brothers, and I will miss you so much.
“Playing for Sundowns and living this beautiful culture has been such a great honor for me. I will truly miss it. Thank you, South Africa. Thank you, Mamelodi Sundowns, for everything. With much love, Ribeiro #10.”
RELATED STORY: ‘Ribeiro is a dream to every coach’ – Nasreddine Nabi
