Miguel Cardoso requests final ruling on Thembinkosi Lorch's situation | OneFootball

After a lot of questions, the picture is finally clear.

Miguel Cardoso requests final ruling on Thembinkosi Lorch's situation

The future of Thembinkosi Lorch remains uncertain as Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso refuses to be drawn into speculation, insisting the club will communicate its decision at the appropriate time.

The 32-year-old attacker spent the previous campaign on loan at Moroccan side Wydad Athletic Club, where he reunited with former Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena. Lorch’s standout performances, particularly at the FIFA Club World Cup, reportedly convinced Wydad to push for a permanent deal. However, negotiations collapsed after the North African club refused to meet Sundowns' financial demands, forcing the player to return to South Africa.

What did Cardoso say about the player!

Speaking after his team’s MTN8 quarter-final triumph over Richards Bay, Cardoso distanced himself from transfer decisions, stressing that player recruitment at Sundowns is a collective process.

"Sometimes people assume I make the final call on signings, but that’s not how things work here," he explained. "At Sundowns, transfers involve the coach, the sporting director, the board, and the club’s leadership. I don’t demand specific players—my role is to provide technical input while the club ensures we sign the right profiles without unnecessary spending."

When pressed on Lorch’s situation, Cardoso remained evasive, only hinting at an impending resolution.

"Lorch’s case, like those of Lucas Ribeiro, Peter Shalulile, and Khuliso Mudau, isn’t something I’ll discuss publicly," he stated. "This is a matter that predates my time here, and the club will handle it accordingly. When the time comes, an official update will be shared—especially since he isn’t with us at the moment."

His remarks suggest that Lorch’s departure is likely, though Sundowns’ hierarchy will have the final say on how and when the matter is concluded.