Monnapule Saleng’s future at Mamelodi Sundowns has become increasingly uncertain, with the winger yet to make an appearance this season and currently excluded from first-team training.
The 28-year-old arrived at Sundowns from Orlando Pirates with plenty of expectations, but his difficult start at the club has raised fresh questions about whether he remains part of Miguel Cardoso’s plans.
For now, however, Saleng’s situation appears to extend beyond footballing decisions.
CARDOSO: SALENG MATTER NOW IN CLUB’S HANDS
Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso recently indicated that the situation surrounding Saleng is no longer simply a coaching issue.
Instead, the matter has moved into the hands of the club’s management, leaving the player’s immediate future unclear.
That development comes as Saleng continues to remain away from the first-team setup.
With the transfer window still open, speculation is growing over whether Sundowns will keep the talented winger or consider a move elsewhere.
AGENT REVEALS DIFFICULT PERIOD
Saleng’s agent, Karabo Mathang Tshabuse, previously acknowledged that her client has been going through a difficult period.
She described his journey as a “very difficult path” and indicated that there were issues she could see but could not necessarily determine or resolve herself.
Tshabuse also said she had tried to encourage Saleng to seek professional assistance, stressing that while she could help him access support, the decision to accept that help ultimately had to come from the player.
Her comments provide important context to a situation that has otherwise remained largely unclear publicly.
SALENG’S STRUGGLES PRE-DATE SUNDOWNS MOVE
The winger’s current lack of regular football is not an entirely new development.
Before joining Sundowns, Saleng spent roughly a year on the sidelines at Orlando Pirates. The reason for his absence was never publicly explained by the club.
He was later sent on loan to Orbit College before eventually completing his move to Sundowns.
The latest chapter has therefore raised questions about whether Saleng can rediscover the form that previously made him one of the most exciting attacking players in South African football.
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?
Sundowns now face an important decision regarding Saleng.
With the transfer window still open, the club could retain the winger and work towards getting him back into the fold, or a departure could become an option if the current situation cannot be resolved.
For Saleng, the priority will be finding a path back to regular football and stability.
Whether that happens at Sundowns or elsewhere remains one of the intriguing unanswered questions surrounding the club.
Will Saleng make his way back into the Sundowns setup, or is a move away now the more likely outcome?
