Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Marcelo Allende, who is in the final year of his contract, insists the uncertainty around his future will not affect his commitment to the club.
Allende was speaking ahead of Sundowns’ FIFA Intercontinental Cup encounter against Saudi Pro League giants Al Ahli at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria on Saturday.
The highly anticipated encounter pits the champions of Africa against the champions of Asia, with Sundowns looking to make their mark on the global stage.
The Chile international is in his fifth season with the Brazilians after joining them from Uruguayan outfit Montevideo City Torque in July 2022. For Allende, the immediate priority remains helping Sundowns succeed, even as questions about whether this could be his final season at Chloorkop continue to mount.
The talented midfielder initially signed a three-year contract with a further two-year option, tying him to the reigning African champions until June 2027.
With no indication yet that a new deal has been agreed, the 27-year-old could be approaching the final months of an impressive spell in Tshwane. However, Allende says he will continue to conduct himself professionally and give his best until the end of his contract, regardless of what his future holds.
ALLENDE ON HIS SUNDOWNS FUTURE
“I think I’m very professional… I have my last year here [at Sundowns] for now, and I always try to do my best until the final. As a player I will always do my best in what I do in the future, now in the present, and my family gave me this idea, and I will always respect it,” Allende told journalists.
His latest remarks echo comments he made a few months ago when he revealed that no discussions had taken place over a potential extension. At the time, Allende said he was focused on doing his job and supporting his teammates, whether selected to play or not.
The midfielder has been one of Sundowns’ most consistent performers since arriving in South Africa, averaging approximately 44 appearances per season across all competitions.
His tactical intelligence and ability to operate in different midfield roles have made him an important squad member.
However, retaining him beyond the current season could prove challenging. His representatives are expected to explore opportunities in Major League Soccer and in Mexico should he become available.
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