Pitso Mosimane, the man who transformed Mamelodi Sundowns into a continental powerhouse, is in advanced talks for a sensational return to Chloorkop. The Tshwane giants are on the verge of severing ties with Portuguese coach Miguel Cardoso.
There is mounting discontent at the Brazilians regarding Cardoso’s tenure at Sundowns. It’s only a matter of time before the club pulls the trigger.
FARPost looks at the tactical and cultural shift that will occur the moment Mosimane walks back through those gates.
Here is what the return of ‘Jingles’ would mean for Masandawana.
RESTORING THE SOUL OF SUNDOWNS
Under current head coach Cardoso, Sundowns have remained relatively dominant, but the team’s identity has faced a crisis of confidence. Following early exits from the MTN8 and Carling Knockout Cup, fans have grown restless, citing a lack of the signature flair that defines the club.
Mosimane doesn’t just win. He understands the cultural DNA of Sundowns, a club he guided to five league titles. His return would see a restoration of high-tempo, ball-retention football with a vertical sting. He brings back the soul of a team that had drifted from its roots, ensuring that dominance is paired with the style the Masandawana faithful demand.
MOSIMANE BRINGS ELITE MAN-MANAGEMENT
Since leaving Pretoria, Mosimane has evolved into a global heavyweight. His stints at Al Ahly, in Saudi Arabia, and the UAE have sharpened his ability to manage big egos and high-pressure environments.
Expect a masterclass in man-management. The 61-year-old mentor returns as a coach who knows how to keep a star-studded dressing room hungry. His international experience ensures he can handle the psychological demands of a squad that is expected to win every time they step onto the pitch.
On the other hand, Cardoso has reportedly found it difficult to maintain control over the Sundowns’ dressing room and technical team.
The FIFA CLUB WORLD CUP OBSESSION
For Mamelodi Sundowns, the Betway Premiership has become the floor, not the ceiling. Winning the league is no longer the benchmark; it’s the expectation. For the first time in years, Sundowns reached Christmas without their usual grip on the league.
The three-time CAF Champions League winner, Mosimane, remains the only coach to deliver a star to the yellow nation, but his ambitions go further. Having won bronze at the FIFA Club World Cup with Al Ahly, alongside six other trophies, he possesses the mettle needed to break down North African giants and compete with the world’s best. He is the visionary capable of transforming Sundowns from continental contenders into respected competitors on the global stage.
SHREWD TRANSFER BUSINESS
Perhaps the biggest shift will be in the recruitment department. While Sundowns have recently leaned heavily toward South American talent, Mosimane’s philosophy is rooted in functional excellence.
He is famous for finding the ‘right’ fit rather than the most expensive name. During his previous tenure, he successfully integrated top talent from the continent and abroad. He looks at what a player adds to the system, not just their pedigree. His return would likely see a more balanced, continentally-aware transfer strategy focused on players who can handle the physical and tactical rigours of African football.
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