Mamelodi Sundowns’ coach Miguel Cardoso has addressed growing speculation about the role of Lebo Mothiba at the club, delivering a candid update on the player’s fitness and future contributions. Speaking to the media, Cardoso clarified the current status of the South African international striker, who joined the Brazilians amid significant excitement but has yet to make an impact.
In his characteristically direct style, the Portuguese tactician made it abundantly clear that fans shouldn’t expect Mothiba to feature in the first team anytime soon, citing the player’s lack of match fitness and the long recovery process required after his injury struggles.
A Tough Road Back for Mothiba
Lebo Mothiba, once hailed as one of South Africa’s most promising attacking talents, joined Mamelodi Sundowns in January. However, his arrival came after a challenging period in his career, marked by injuries and an extended absence from competitive football.
🗣 “Let me make it clear,” Cardoso began. “Lebo Mothiba will not help the team in the nearest months. It’s not because he lacks the talent or ability, but because he’s not in the right condition to perform at the level we need.”
The coach’s comments reflect the sobering reality of Mothiba’s situation. Having undergone a major surgery and spent over a year sidelined, the striker is still far from being match-ready.
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A Long-Term Vision
Cardoso was quick to emphasize that the club has a long-term plan for Mothiba, one that prioritizes his health and gradual reintegration into top-level football over immediate results.
🗣 “He comes from a long period of injury, and right now, he’s working on his condition. It’s a medium-to-long-term plan for him,” the coach explained.
This approach aligns with Sundowns’ reputation for meticulous player management. The club is known for nurturing talent and ensuring that players are fully fit before throwing them into the deep end.
🗣 “We are not looking to rush him. This is about his future, not just the next game. If we put too much pressure on him now, it could jeopardize everything,” Cardoso added.
Managing Expectations
Despite the hype surrounding Mothiba’s signing, Cardoso urged fans and the media to manage their expectations, pointing out that the player’s journey back to full fitness would require patience and understanding.
🗣 “We cannot expect him to come in and start scoring goals immediately. He has been without competitive football for over a year. That’s not something you recover from overnight,” he said.
The coach’s candid assessment highlights the challenges faced by athletes returning from long-term injuries. Beyond the physical recovery, there is also the psychological aspect—regaining confidence, sharpness, and the ability to compete at the highest level.
Praise for Mothiba’s Character
While the update on Mothiba’s fitness might have disappointed some, Cardoso took time to praise the striker’s attitude and commitment.
🗣 “Lebo is a wonderful person and a fantastic player,” he said. “Even though he’s not ready to play, he has been working incredibly hard in training. He’s dedicated, focused, and determined to get back to his best.”
The coach’s words underscore Mothiba’s professionalism and resilience, qualities that will be crucial as he navigates this challenging phase of his career.
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Sundowns’ Depth Eases the Pressure
Fortunately for Sundowns, the club’s depth in attacking options means they can afford to take a cautious approach with Mothiba. With a squad brimming with talent, including prolific scorers like Peter Shalulile and Marcelo Allende, the Brazilians are well-equipped to compete on all fronts without relying on their new signing.
🗣 “We have a very strong squad,” Cardoso noted. “This allows us to give Lebo the time he needs to recover fully without feeling the pressure to rush back.”
The Bigger Picture
For Mothiba, the move to Sundowns represents a fresh start and an opportunity to reignite his career after a difficult spell in Europe. The striker’s journey has been anything but straightforward, marked by highs, including a successful stint in France’s Ligue 1, and lows, such as the injuries that sidelined him for over a year.
🗣 “This is not just about this season or the next few months,” Cardoso said. “It’s about building a foundation for Lebo to have a long and successful career with Sundowns.”
The coach’s words reflect a broader philosophy at the club, one that values long-term success over short-term gains.
A Message to the Fans
Cardoso also had a message for Sundowns supporters, urging them to remain patient and to continue backing Mothiba as he works towards his comeback.
🗣 “We understand that fans are excited to see Lebo in action, and we appreciate their support. But it’s important to remember that he’s on a journey. When the time comes, he will be ready to contribute to the team,” he said.
The coach’s appeal for patience is a reminder of the often-unseen struggles athletes face behind the scenes.
Looking Ahead
While Mothiba’s immediate future may not involve first-team action, the player’s potential and the club’s faith in him suggest that brighter days lie ahead. For now, the focus remains on his recovery and gradual reintegration into competitive football.
🗣 “Lebo has a lot to offer, and when he’s ready, he will show everyone why Sundowns signed him,” Cardoso concluded.
As Mothiba continues to work on his fitness, Sundowns will march on, buoyed by their formidable squad and the leadership of a coach who understands the importance of balancing ambition with pragmatism.
Conclusion
Miguel Cardoso’s update on Lebo Mothiba offers a realistic yet hopeful perspective on the striker’s situation. While the road to recovery is long and filled with challenges, both player and club are committed to ensuring that Mothiba returns stronger and better equipped to contribute to Sundowns’ success. For fans, the message is clear: patience and support will be key as the talented forward embarks on this new chapter of his career.
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