Mamelodi Sundowns striker and club record signing Arthur Sales has broken his silence on the criticism that has come with his reported hefty price tag and his first season in the PSL.
Sales joined in July 2024 for a reported record fee of €3.2 million (approx. R63 million). This is, so far, understood the be the highest amount Sundowns have ever paid for a player, and the highest paid by a South African team.
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As would be expected, the lanky marksman came to these shores with fireworks anticipated, only to then endure heavy criticism after a slow start, only scoring his first goal in November against Sekhukhune United.
However, fast-forward to the penultimate match day of the domestic season, and the Tshwane giants' investment has come good in a big way.
Sales has registered nine goals and 10 assists so far. Four of his goals have come in the last five league matches, proving to be vital in the push that saw the side fend off Orlando Pirates to lift an eighth consecutive title.
"It's normal in this situation where I was signed by the club and it goes public that it is a record signing," Sales told Radio2000's Game On speaking about his arrival and negative feedback.
"And so fans, hearing that it's a record signing, will expect goals and everything and then with the adaptation taking place and with me not scoring, the criticism was coming.
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"But what is more important is for me to stand firm and now deliver. It was just a matter of time and me adapting," he continued.
With the possibility of Peter Shalulile leaving in the upcoming transfer window, the Brazilian may play an even bigger role next season, with big games also coming up in the CAF Champions League and FIFA Club World Cup.
