Themba Zwane scoring a brace for Bafana Bafana when it held Algeria to a 3-3 draw in 2024, at Nelson Mandela Stadium. Image: iDiski Times shared via X @iDiskiTimes.
(The Post News)– Mamelodi Sundowns has allegedly put a halt to contract talks with star midfielder Themba Zwane, raising questions about his future with the team.
Since then, he has started training again in Chloorkop, and before he resumes competitive play, he is anticipated to compete in friendly games. Zwane has been a key player for the Brazilians for many years, and his current deal is about to end in June. But the team seems to be exercising caution, choosing to evaluate his performance and level of fitness before making a commitment. After a protracted hiatus, Sundowns is eager to see Zwane demonstrate his continued worth to the team, according to people familiar with the matter. His complete recuperation and proving that he can continue to play at his high level are reportedly the club’s top priorities.
Sundowns has felt the impact of Zwane’s absence and it looks forward to his return. Sundowns will take on Esperance of Tunisia on Tuesday night in the CAF Champions League quarterfinals. In Pretoria, they prevailed 1-0 in the opening leg. The club’s choice to delay contract negotiations, however, emphasises how crucial it is to guarantee the player’s long-term performance and fitness.
Miguel Cardoso, the coach of Sundowns, will be hoping he returns for the season’s last stretch. When Masandawana returns from Tunisia on Sunday, they will play Kaizer Chiefs in the Nedbank Cup semi-final. If they prevail, they will face the Orlando Pirates or Marumo Gallants in the championship game. They still have seven games left in the Betway Premiership this season. Despite having four games left, the Pirates are only 12 points behind them. For the rest of the season, Cardoso will require Zwane’s experience.