Following reports that three Mamelodi Sundowns players are currently not part of the squad in pre-season training camp in Rustenburg, KickOff.com has the latest on one particular star.
Sundowns have finally returned from their extended break due to the FIFA Club World Cup and have setup their pre-season camp in Rustenburg.
The Brazilians' video showcasing players as they returned to Chloorkop on Tuesday trended on social media, with the absence of Lucas Ribeiro Costa raising eyebrows, amid interest from overseas clubs.
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Although Costa has rejoined his teammates in Rustenburg, there are reports that three players, Neo Maema, Kegan Johannes and Terrence Mashego are not part of the squad gearing up for the 2025/26 season. The trio are believed not to be in the plans of head coach Miguel Cardoso.
When asked why Mashego is not training with the rest of the squad, agent Pontsho Madumo told this website that the left-back "is currently attending family things (and) will return in no time".
Even though the former Cape Town City defender was included in Sundowns' Club World Cup squad, his future was at Masandawana was in doubt post the 2024/25 season, after making only 13 appearances in all competitions.
The 29-year-old defender's contract also expiring at the end of June added to the speculation over his future, before the Tshwane giants exercised a one-year option they had on his deal, which will only run out in June 2026.
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Kaizer Chiefs were reported to be interested in Mashego before Sundowns took an option on his contract.
With The Brazilians interested in Stellenbosch left-back Fawaaz Basadien, the multiple league champions could bargain with the left-footer to sweeten the deal for Stellies.
Masandawana will open the new campaign with the MTN8 quarter-final clash against Richards Bay on Sunday 3 August.
