Pitso Is Already at Sundowns
By Sello Masilo
Khanye has stirred up speculation in South African football circles by claiming that Pitso Mosimane is already influencing Mamelodi Sundowns’ decisions, pointing to the shock signing of Monnapule Saleng from Orlando Pirates as proof.
In a recent episode of the iDiski podcast, Khanye argued that Saleng’s transfer bears the hallmarks of Mosimane’s strategic input, suggesting the legendary coach’s return to Chloorkop is imminent.
This comes amid reports of ongoing talks between Sundowns and Mosimane, despite a lingering legal dispute, and cryptic signals from current head coach Miguel Cardoso hinting at uncertainty in his role.
Saleng’s move, confirmed on 9 January 2026, has sent shockwaves through the Betway Premiership, with Pirates fans reeling and Sundowns supporters buzzing over the potential boost to their title defence.
As Sundowns chase continental glory and domestic dominance, the Saleng acquisition—coupled with whispers of Mosimane’s comeback—could reshape the league landscape.
Cardoso’s recent Instagram activity, quoting David Bowie with “I don’t know where I’m going from here, but I promise it won’t be boring,” has fueled rumours of his possible exit, adding intrigue to an already dramatic transfer window.
Khanye’s Bold Claims on Saleng and Mosimane’s Influence
During the podcast, Khanye dissected Saleng’s transfer, insisting it aligns with Mosimane’s recruitment style.
“I think imani im money talkks imali idlile endimi ngulu kakhulu epirates maybe they couldn’t stop this kunamanye ama agents i knowates one of the biggest make no mistake you can’t fightlando can do no you can’t fight them you force them to sell maybe have been money i batemedillion,”
he said, suggesting financial pressures forced Pirates’ hand.
He added: “Ukuthi lomdlalo ngo Kados Akasayinanga uMichel unamawer type Maseko is more of a player speed njengaye technically usale kunale things technically got speed udlalele iteam whereby stars akadlali ngadlale ngakhona kuSersport
unitanda Bafana given kunento angayenza football Iyalazi ujabele yena ubuel Khazo Why?
Because 10 Michel Kardose and then wamlona so ngithi done him ngimshayele izandla himself easy out Orlando pirates become a star player akusiyindaba zase groundini of the field behavior kwi or you redeem yourself psychological
ayenzekanga ebantwini abaningi unedlozi elikhulu abonge abakasingam.”
Khanye believes Mosimane orchestrated the deal to strengthen Sundowns’ attack.
“Ngithi kuwe i-winning eDolelo nopirates babanayo last thing you dont care must leave you must go khoz uright bane yazi enyinto futhi ngalama contract we aloonwa for 2 years or ungaswo years to years with an i-option to renew another 2 years le option ayi more 4 mhlawumbe uma kusele bathi nayi
need angazi ukuthi umjita lento nto enjengale ayenzeki be atlando Pirates come back then uma ubuya eSundown its biggest team whereby second one of the best team in the continent ikud dononsa after ipirates kube ngathi ifail not on the field kuyekukhumbule ipirates winning winning winning
people start forget about 2 if the team is winning Irespect ukuthi uyar wenzeni people don’t dwell nge history they deal ng present so ain i-contract ucle umfana kunezo azenzile before he could go kwenzeke lento eyenzekile aphinde.”
This echoes sentiments from other ex-players like Katlego Mphela, who warned that Mosimane’s return could spark control issues over signings and team direction.
Saleng’s Shock Transfer: Details and Reactions
On 9 January 2026, Sundowns announced Saleng’s immediate transfer from Pirates, a move that caught fans off guard.
The 27-year-old winger, known for his pace and creativity, signed a long-term deal after a reported R20 million fee, with Pirates unable to resist the offer amid financial considerations.
Pirates issued a brief statement: “Thank You Monnapule Saleng! ⚫⚪🔴⭐ #OrlandoPirates #OnceAlways.” Sundowns welcomed him enthusiastically: “𝐌𝐎𝐍𝐍𝐀𝐏𝐔𝐋𝐄 𝐒𝐀𝐋𝐄𝐍𝐆 𝐉𝐎𝐈𝐍𝐒 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐘𝐄𝐋𝐋𝐎𝐖 𝐅𝐀𝐌𝐈𝐋𝐘 👆🏆”
Reactions poured in on social media. One X user posted: “Four people Mamelodi Sundowns fans desperately want to see. Miguel Cardoso Pitso Mosimane Khuliso Mudau Monnapule Saleng.”
Another quipped: “Monnapule Saleng went to remove a tattoo while wearing an Orlando Pirates kit… even the tattoo couldn’t survive the move to Sundowns 😂”
Pirates fans expressed dismay, while Sundowns supporters celebrated the boost to their squad. The transfer weakens Pirates’ attack, where Saleng was a key contributor this season.
Cardoso’s Cryptic Signals Amid Exit Rumours
Adding fuel to the fire, Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso updated his profile, removing his title as head coach, amid reports of Mosimane’s impending return.
His Instagram story quoted David Bowie: “I don’t know where I’m going from here, but I promise it won’t be boring.”
Appointed in December 2024 after Manqoba Mngqithi’s sacking, Cardoso has had a mixed run, with Sundowns leading the league but facing scrutiny.
Sources indicate advanced talks for a contract extension, but Mosimane’s links suggest potential upheaval.
Mosimane’s Potential Return: Endorsements and Warnings
Reports from Soccer Laduma and others confirm ongoing negotiations between Sundowns and Mosimane, Sundowns’ most successful coach with five league titles and a CAF Champions League win. Despite a legal battle over unpaid fees from his 2020 exit, a reunion is gaining traction.
Ex-Sundowns midfielder Katlego Mphela cautioned: “Pitso wants to sign his own players… making changes might not go well with Mamelodi Sundowns.”
Others, like Brent Carelse, endorse it: “Pitso’s potential comeback would be more than just a simple reunion.”
Fans on X are excited: “Pitso Mosimane Returns to Sundowns: A New Era Begins.”
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