Mamelodi Sundowns’ new signee, Monnapule Saleng, has opened up about his approach to handling social media critics and maintaining his form amidst the intense pressure of top-flight football.
Saleng signed with the Betway Premiership titleholders, Sundowns, after spending the first half of the season on loan at Orbit College from Orlando Pirates.
Bafana Ba Style will be seeking to defend their league title with the acquisition of skilled winger Saleng, after winning the trophy for the last eight seasons.
Currently, the Brazilians occupy the second position in the Betway Premiership standings, having earned 26 points from 13 matches. They trail the league leaders, Pirates, by two points.
‘I HAD TO BE MENTALLY STRONG’: MONNAPULE SALENG
Saleng disclosed that he needed to maintain mental resilience and never let social media backlash distract him while he kept concentrating on his performance.
He also shared insights into the psychological demands of playing for one of South Africa’s “Big Three.”
“People analyse my games differently, and when they criticise me, I must be mentally strong and not allow criticism or negative comments to derail me,” said Saleng on The Pitchside Podcast.
“Despite the criticism, I never thought of quitting football because of people’s negative comments. I believe it’s because they see my game differently, and there’s nothing I can do about it.”
MONNAPULE SALENG UNFAZED BY COMPETITION AT MAMELODI SUNDOWNS
The 27-year-old went on to state that he is unfazed by the competition at Sundowns and and is resolute in his commitment to secure his spot in the matchday squad.
On the right wing, Saleng will be competing with the likes of Tashreeq Matthews, Siyabonga Mabena, Thapelo Maseko, who is set to join Cypriot club, AEL Limassol.
“I love competition because it determines your level. At big teams, competition will always be there. At Pirates, there was competition; I had to wait for my chance and got it,” he added.
“However, I must work hard for the coach to select me. Just because I come from Pirates, my place is not guaranteed. So, I should push myself to make it onto the coach’s matchday list.”
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