Monnapule Saleng breaks silence on Mamelodi Sundowns move | OneFootball

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Saleng opens up on Downs move

Photo: pmanagement_agency / IG

Monnapule Saleng has broken his silence on his blockbuster move to Mamelodi Sundowns from Betway Premiership rivals Orlando Pirates.

The 27-year-old spent the first round of the campaign on loan at Orbit College after he was phased out by the Buccaneers, with his last appearance for the club dating back to December 2024.

Saleng was reportedly at loggerheads with the Pirates hierarchy over improved terms on his contract, but his agent, Karabo Mathang Tshabuse has since rubbished the claims.

Now, the left-footed attacker is set for a new chapter at Chloorkop, and he expressed immense gratitude for getting another shot to play for a big team.

“I thank God for this opportunity and everything he has done for me. He has given me another chance to play for a big team after my previous experiences. Being here feels great, and the welcome has also been wonderful,” Saleng told Downs' Pitchside Podcast.

On the fierce competition in the star-studded Sundowns squad, the 2022/23 Dstv Premiership Players' Player of the Season award winner, says he's unfazed and eager to earn his spot in the team.

“I love competition because it determines your level. At big teams competition will always be there. At Pirates there was competition and I had to wait for my chance and got it,” Saleng added.

"I must work hard for the coach to select me. Just because I come from Pirates my place is not guaranteed. I must work hard to make it onto the coach's matchday list.