Miguel Cardoso addresses Sundowns future amid exit rumours | OneFootball

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Cardoso speaks on Downs future

Photo: Phakamisa Lensman/BackPagePix

Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has responded to ongoing speculation regarding his future at the club, with rumours swirling about a possible departure.

The Portuguese tactician has come under fire following a lacklustre 2025/26 campaign so far, with some Masandawana supporters calling for his dismissal.

In the wake of these struggles, reports have surfaced suggesting that Sundowns are deep in negotiations to bring back legendary coach Pitso Mosimane as Cardoso’s replacement on the bench.

Pressed for a response, the 53-year-old coach dismissed claims that his position at Chloorkop is in jeopardy, criticising what he called baseless reporting.

“The problem is that nowadays people discuss football on their phones, and people talk about things they absolutely know nothing about, which just amplifies things that don’t even exist—that’s the issue,” Cardoso said.

"People are speculating and debating things they’d probably like to see happen, things they have no clue about, but still want to talk about. With a phone in hand, a blog you started, and some followers, it all gets echoed to people who unfortunately have no idea what they’re talking about.”

Cardoso was quick to clarify that the Sundowns management remains unfazed by outside noise, emphasising the unity within the club.

“Look, Sundowns is a club that is led from the inside out, not the other way around. There’s strong leadership within the club, a solid sporting direction, a strong coach, and a united dressing room,” he added.

"Outside voices won’t bring us down—the gates of Chloorkop are strong enough to keep those things out. We are united, we know what needs to be done, and we’re working hard to make our fans proud. We just need our supporters not to be swayed by outside distractions or to give oxygen to rumours that don’t exist—just keep backing us.”

Meanwhile, Sundowns marked their Betway Premiership return with a 2-0 victory over Orbit College, courtesy of goals from Arthur Sales and debutant Brayan Leon at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Monday.