Monnapule Saleng’s future at Mamelodi Sundowns is becoming increasingly uncertain after head coach Miguel Cardoso provided further insight into the disciplinary issues that have kept the winger away from the first team.
The 28-year-old attacker is currently not training with the Sundowns senior squad following a series of incidents involving the club’s rules and expectations.
Cardoso previously revealed that Saleng failed to report for the second leg of Sundowns’ CAF Champions League final in May. The coach has now provided more details about the circumstances surrounding the player’s continued absence.
Cardoso: Saleng Situation Is Now a Club Matter
Speaking ahead of Sundowns’ MTN8 semi-final against Golden Arrows, Cardoso made it clear that the situation is no longer his responsibility as head coach.
The Portuguese tactician explained that the club had made significant efforts to integrate Saleng into the squad and help him adapt to the standards expected of players at Sundowns.
According to Cardoso, the issue developed after repeated incidents involving Saleng’s conduct towards teammates, coaches and the club.
He stressed that the Sundowns dressing room has established rules that all players are expected to follow.
Cardoso suggested that repeated breaches of those standards eventually made it difficult for the technical team to rely on the player.
‘He Just Doesn’t Appear’
One of the most concerning issues highlighted by Cardoso was Saleng’s alleged failure to report for scheduled team activities.
The coach described situations where Saleng would train normally throughout the week, only to fail to arrive when the squad was due to leave for a match.
Cardoso indicated that these incidents were not isolated, with the winger allegedly being late on multiple occasions and sometimes leaving earlier than expected.
The coach said these repeated issues ultimately affected the trust between the player and the team.
Sundowns Tried to Integrate Saleng
Cardoso also revealed that considerable effort was made to help Saleng settle into the Sundowns environment after his move from Orlando Pirates.
He recalled personally trying to make the winger feel part of the squad and understand the culture within the club.
However, Cardoso believes integration has to work both ways, with the player also required to embrace the team’s standards and environment.
The coach has now effectively handed the matter over to Sundowns management, stressing that Saleng’s situation has become a club issue rather than a coaching issue.
What Next for Monnapule Saleng?
Saleng’s future at Chloorkop is now one of the biggest talking points in South African football.
The winger remains a highly talented player, but his continued absence means questions will persist over whether he can return to the Sundowns first team or whether a separation could eventually be considered.
For now, the next move appears to rest with Sundowns management and Saleng himself.
