Mamelodi Sundowns defender Mothobi Mvala is close to returning to training amid uncertainty on his future. Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso recently provided a definitive update on the fitness of the versatile defender.
The 31-year-old centre-back is in the final months of his current contract at Chloorkop. With his contract set to expire at the end of June 2026, following the club’s decision to exercise a one-year extension option last season, Mvala is now legally permitted to sign a pre-contract with any suitor of his choice.
Mvala’s 2025/26 campaign has been largely stifled by a persistent knee injury that saw him sidelined for the AFCON. Speaking at a Nedbank Cup press conference, Cardoso detailed the medical setbacks that delayed the veteran defender’s return.
WHAT CARDOSO SAID ABOUT MVALA
“He had made conservative treatment on the knee that allowed him the last part of last season to already be with us… but unfortunately, he had to go back on the surgery,” Cardoso explained.
Despite the setback, the Portuguese tactician confirmed that Mvala is in the final stages of rehabilitation and is expected to rejoin full team training within the next few weeks.
Since joining the Brazilians from Highlands Park in 2020, Mvala has established himself as a pillar of the Sundowns defence. His statistics reflect a consistent contributor to the reigning Betway Premiership champions. He has featured in 121 games across all competitions, scoring seven goals and providing four assists.
The former South Africa youth international has won five league titles, the MTN8 and the Nedbank Cup. He was also part of the team that won the inaugural African Football League title.
Mvala’s return is not just a boost for Sundowns, but a relief for Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos. As a trusted lieutenant in the national setup, a fit Mvala would play a vital role in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
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