Bryan León’s flying start at Mamelodi Sundowns has slowed down this season, prompting fans to question what has changed for the Colombian striker.
León arrived at Chloorkop and immediately made an impact, finishing his first half-season in South Africa with an impressive 15 goals in 26 appearances.
His finishing, movement and work rate quickly made him one of the most dangerous attackers in the Premier Soccer League, with some supporters even suggesting he could have challenged for 30 goals had he started the campaign with Sundowns.
However, the numbers have been different this season.
León struggling to find the same scoring touch
The 26-year-old has scored just three goals in nine appearances this campaign and has also been criticised for failing to convert several good opportunities.
That has naturally led to questions about whether the striker is experiencing a temporary dip in confidence or whether opponents have simply become more familiar with his game.
The debate intensified after local football journalist Lorenz Köhler raised questions about León’s current form on social media.
Fans point to TikTok and lifestyle
Some Sundowns supporters have taken aim at León’s alleged TikTok activity, suggesting that spending too much time on social media could be affecting his focus and preparation.
Others have gone further, questioning whether the striker has become too comfortable following his impressive introduction to South African football.
However, these claims remain fan opinions and social-media speculation. There is no confirmed evidence that TikTok or León’s lifestyle is responsible for his drop in goals.
Other supporters have offered a more football-focused explanation, arguing that opposition defenders have adapted to his style and that the striker needs to find new ways to create space and finish chances.
Can León rediscover his best form?
Sundowns will certainly hope the Colombian can rediscover the ruthlessness that made him such a standout performer last season.
Three goals in nine matches is hardly disastrous, but it is a significant drop from the standards León established after arriving in South Africa.
With Sundowns competing on multiple fronts, his goals could prove crucial as the season progresses.
For now, the biggest question is simple: is León going through a normal scoring drought, or has something changed in his game?
And as for the TikTok theory? Only León and those inside the Sundowns camp will know whether social media is actually affecting his preparation.
What do you think is behind Bryan León’s dip in form?
