Golden Arrows FC head coach, Manqoba Mngqithi, has reflected on his reunion with Mamelodi Sundowns duo of Marcello Allende and Arthur Sales, offering a clear perspective on where the Brazilian forward truly excels on the pitch. Mngqithi served as the head coach of the Carling All Stars team, comprised of players from various PSL clubs.
Voted for by fans, the two South Americans were part of the All-Star team. On Saturday, the All Stars were defeated 2-0 by Carling Knockout Cup champions Orlando Pirates in the Carling Cup. Mngqithi worked with Allende for over two years before departing from the Pretoria club.
The Chilean arrived at Sundowns in July 2022 while Mngqithi was serving as co-head coach. He later became one of Mngqithi’s most trusted players during his brief spell as the sole head coach in the 2024/25 season. The experienced tactician reminisced about the reunion, speaking warmly of his former protégé.
“No man, those are top players, technically their level is very different and tactically the awareness of Marcelo, he is probably one of the best midfielders in the country,” he said. Since joining the club, the Chilean has established himself as one of the most highly rated players in South African football.
Last season, he featured in an impressive 49 matches, with his consistent performances earning him a nomination for the PSL Midfielder of the Season award. Mngqithi further substantiated his assertions about Allende, highlighting the midfielder’s most key attributes on the field.
“Not many people know him because he hardly spends time on the ball, but he is always where he is supposed to be. My experience of working with him in particular will always tell you how good the boy is,” said Mngqithi.
WHAT IS ARTHUR SALES’ BEST POSITION?
After praising Allende, the Arrows coach turned his focus to the Brazilian forward. The energetic attacker joined Sundowns in July 2024 from Belgian club Lommel SK as a centre forward. However, after a few appearances, then-coach Mngqithi repositioned him to a more versatile role. Sales took on the number 10 position and continued operating from that role well after his former coach’s departure.
He has since made 66 appearances for Sundowns, scoring 12 goals and providing 13 assists over a season and a half.
“Arthur, I have always said I don’t think he is a striker. But I think he is a very creative offensive player, and, in that position, he creates a lot of assists, and he is always where it’s painful for the opponents.”
Mngqithi wrapped up by expressing his delight at reconnecting with his former players. He cherished the exciting reunion, asserting that the two players are still his boys. “I was very excited to see them again, and we reconnected because they are my boys,” he said.
RELATED STORY: Mngqithi sends special message to Hugo Broos ahead of AFCON