Mamelodi Sundowns have moved swiftly to secure the future of head coach Miguel Cardoso, triggering the option in his contract to extend his stay at Chloorkop for another season, FARPost has learnt.
Cardoso’s initial deal was set to expire at the end of June, but the club has exercised its option following a historic campaign in which the Portuguese tactician guided Sundowns to CAF Champions League success.
The 54-year-old, who joined the Brazilians in December 2024, delivered the coveted second continental star in the club’s history, ending years of frustration in Africa’s premier club competition.
The Champions League triumph proved particularly significant as it came during a season in which Sundowns failed to retain their domestic league crown. Orlando Pirates won the league, ending the Brazilians’ eight-year dominance on the domestic scene.
However, guiding Sundowns to continental success elevated Cardoso’s stock within the club and among its supporters.
CARDOSO REWARDED FOR DELIVERING SECOND CAF CHAMPIONS LEAGUE STAR
Winning the Champions League has long been a priority for Sundowns, who have invested heavily in assembling one of the strongest squads on the continent. Cardoso ultimately succeeded where his predecessors fell short, guiding Masandawana to their first African title since 2016.
The extension provides stability ahead of the 2026/27 season as Sundowns look to build on their continental success and challenge for more silverware both domestically and internationally.
Since taking charge 542 days ago, Cardoso has led Sundowns in 84 matches, winning 53, drawing 19 and losing just 12.
He had attracted the interest of Egyptian giants Al Ahly, who recently parted ways with their coach Jess Thorup. The former Celta Vigo mentor has reached three consecutive CAF Champions League finals. His impressive run began with Tunisian giants Espérance de Tunis, whom he guided to the 2024 final, and he repeated the feat with Sundowns, ultimately lifting the coveted trophy this year.
The club has also moved to secure the futures of several first-team players ahead of the new season. Club captain Themba Zwane has signed a new one-year contract, while the club has exercised options to extend the stays of Thapelo Morena, Bathusi Aubaas and Terrence Mashego.
MATHIAS ZANGENBERG LEAVES MAMELODI SUNDOWNS
Meanwhile, highly regarded head of physical performance Mathias Zangenberg has left the club after three years at the club. The Danish performance specialist played a key role across the senior men’s team, ladies’ team and academy structures, helping to establish and align the club’s physical performance philosophy.
Zangenberg, who holds a UEFA A Coaching Licence, earned widespread praise during his time at the Brazilians for his contribution to player conditioning, injury prevention and overall performance development.
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