Mamelodi Sundowns: Mngqithi Out, Cardoso In

Manqoba Mngqithi has been sacked as the manager of Mamelodi Sundowns.

Following crunch talks with Sundowns’ management on Monday, 9 December, it was decided that Mngqithi – who has yet to improve the team’s fortunes in the ongoing CAF Champions League – would be let go.

“The Sundowns board and management have decided to implement a restructuring and change in the coaching department,” revealed Sundowns chairperson, Tlhopie Motsepe, during a press conference at the club’s headquarters in Chloorkop, Gauteng on Tuesday, 10 December.

In Mngqithi’s place, Portuguese tactician Miguel Cardoso will assume the role of head coach for the reigning Premier Soccer League champions.

“[Cardoso] is a man who we believe has the right type of personality to lead a club like Mamelodi Sundowns Football Club,” declared Motsepe. “He has the ability, and he has the desire, to take us to the highest level and to succeed as a football club.”

Cardoso has managed teams such as Rio Ave, FC Nantes, AEK Athens and, most recently, Espérance de Tunis. In the case of the latter club, he played a key role in guiding them to the finals of the 2023/2024 CAF Champions League.

Sundowns are scheduled to play against Raja Club Athletic in the Champions League this Sunday, 15 December. All eyes will be on Cardoso as he takes charge for his first match.

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