Sundowns set the record straight on player interest amid Ribeiro saga | OneFootball

Subdowns clarify player interest situation amidst Ribeiro saga

Photo: Mamelodi Sundowns

Mamelodi Sundowns have issued a statement regarding interest in their players, with several stars said to have received offers from abroad following the club’s impressive performance at the FIFA Club World Cup.

Brazilian talisman Lucas Ribeiro Costa has reportedly drawn interest from a host of clubs, including in Turkey, Qatar and Brazil, with Fluminense interested. However, despite the reported interest, no deal has materialized at this stage.

Now, the Premier Soccer League (PSL) footballer of the season has requested to terminate his contract with the reigning Betway Premiership champions. Ribeiro took the matter to the FIFA Football Tribunal, prompting Sundowns to respond.

“The success and achievements of Mamelodi Sundowns over the past two decades has been based on its deep commitment to the development, growth and financial sustainability of the Club’s players,” read the club statement.

“Sundowns has made significant investments in its youth academies and in developing and training boys and girls football players, to represent the Club, the South African and other National Teams in competitions on the African Continent and globally.”

“Mamelodi Sundowns has also made substantial investments over the years in recruiting, training and acquiring the services of some of the best South African, African and South American football players.”

“It has always been the policy and commitment of Mamelodi Sundowns to engage and negotiate with football clubs in Africa and worldwide, that are interested in recruiting and acquiring the services of the Club’s players.”

“The objective of Sundowns in these discussions and negotiations has always been to advance the interests of the player and the Club and to be fair and just, and to contribute to the fulfilment of the interests of all parties.”

“Mamelodi Sundowns has received enquries, particularly after the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, from a few prominent football clubs that have expressed an interest in acquiring the services of certain Sundowns players.”

“Mamelodi Sundowns is committed to continue with these discussions and negotiations, as part of its policy and deep commitment to advance the interests of the players and the Club, as well as the fulfilment of the objectives and interests of all parties.”

“The players, Technical Team, management, Board and the Chairman of Mamelodi Sundowns, Tlhopie Motsepe, are all motivated and inspired to compete and succeed in all competitions in South Africa and on the African continent.,” Downs concluded.