Mamelodi Sundowns have welcomed Cassius Mailula back to Chloorkop, with the reigning African champions now working to ensure the forward is available for their pre-season tour of Austria, FARPost has established.
The 25-year-old attacker is rejoining Masandawana after ending his spell with MLS side Toronto FC by mutual agreement, paving the way for an emotional return to the club where he first made his name.
Information gathered by FARPost indicates Sundowns are now racing against time to finalise all necessary processes to ensure Mailula joins the travelling squad before their departure for Europe. Sundowns leave for Austria on Saturday night.
Mailula’s return comes as head coach Miguel Cardoso begins shaping his squad for another demanding campaign that will include domestic competitions and defending the CAF Champions League title.
Mailula is expected to provide added competition in Sundowns’ already formidable attacking department that includes mercurial Colombian forward Brayan Leon and Bafana Bafana striker Iqraam Rayners.
MAILULA RETURNS TO FAMILIAR SURROUNDINGS
The Limpopo-born forward left Sundowns in 2023 after a breakthrough campaign that established him as one of South Africa’s brightest attacking talents. He appeared in 31 matches for the Brazilians, scoring 15 goals and providing four assists, before moving to Toronto FC.
However, his overseas adventure never went as planned. He managed only eight appearances for the Canadian outfit before spending loan spells at Moroccan giants Wydad Athletic Club and Belgian side KV Kortrijk in search of regular game time.
His representatives later confirmed that the player had requested a mutual termination with Toronto FC to pursue the next chapter of his career.
Should all the remaining administrative processes be completed in time, Mailula is expected to travel with Sundowns for their pre-season camp in Austria. Masandawana have lined up a demanding schedule of friendly matches as they fine-tune preparations for the 2026/27 season.
They kick off the tour against German third-tier side SV Sandhausen on 16 July, then lock horns with Ukrainian powerhouse Dynamo Kyiv the following day.
Further clashes await against Championship outfit Cardiff City on 23 July, with the tour concluding on 26 July with back-to-back fixtures against Saudi First Division side Al Arabi and Saudi Pro League champions Al Hilal.
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