Following KV Kortrijk’s promotion back to the Belgian Pro League, former Mamelodi Sundowns star Cassius Mailula finds himself at a crossroads over his future. Kortrijk secured their promotion after a 3-1 victory over Daring Brussels on Friday.
The emphatic victory saw them finish the season second on 59 points behind SK Beveren. Two clubs are automatically promoted from the Challenger Pro League to the top-flight.
The South African attacker was on loan at the club from Major League Soccer side Toronto FC. With top-flight football now on the horizon, Mailula’s future appears uncertain, with several possible scenarios emerging ahead of the new season.
Kortrijk’s hierarchy, led by sporting director Nils Vanneste, initially recruited Mailula for his versatility across the frontline.
However, his return of just three appearances without a goal contribution has raised questions. Mailula’s short stint in Belgium has yielded just 147 minutes of action, a return that complicates any case for a permanent stay.
TORONTO DECISION LOOMS
The Limpopo-born striker remains under contract with Toronto FC until the end of 2026, with an option for a further year. Should Kortrijk decline to make his move permanent, the 23-year-old would return to Canada, a scenario that brings its own uncertainty.
His previous stint in the MLS was inconsistent, with limited opportunities to cement a regular role.
That could open the door for Toronto to explore alternatives, including another loan move or a potential transfer within MLS or to a European league that better aligns with his technical profile.
A return to South Africa for the former Wydad Athletic Club striker remains a strong possibility. The talented forward would certainly attract interest from Betway Premiership heavyweights who are aware of what he is capable of.
He has previously been linked with a potential reunion with Sundowns or a high-profile switch to Kaizer Chiefs. Such a move would offer Mailula a platform to rediscover his scoring form and re-establish himself.
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