Miguel Cardoso Explains Mamelodi Sundowns’ Decision to Sign Deano van Rooyen

Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has explained the thinking behind the club’s decision to sign experienced right-back Deano van Rooyen. The defender was officially unveiled by the reigning league champions on Sunday afternoon following his surprise departure from Orlando Pirates by mutual consent. His arrival comes at an important time for Sundowns, with injuries leaving the club short of options in the right-back position. Cardoso addressed the transfer after Sundowns secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Golden Arrows at King Zwelithini Stadium on Sunday. The coach made it clear that Van Rooyen has joined the club to provide experience and strengthen the squad as Masandawana continue their pursuit of major silverware.

Sundowns’ decision to move for Van Rooyen was largely influenced by an immediate injury problem in defence. First-choice right-back Khuliso Mudau is currently sidelined with a long-term Achilles tendon injury, leaving the club without one of its most established options in the position. Zuko Mdunyelwa has also been dealing with an injury, further reducing Cardoso’s choices. The situation became more pressing after Mdunyelwa was forced off in a previous match, prompting the technical team to consider bringing in additional defensive cover. While Sundowns already have Thapelo Morena and other players capable of operating in the position, the club felt that Van Rooyen’s experience could provide valuable depth.

The reigning champions had initially identified Thabang Matuludi as their preferred target for the right-back position. However, Polokwane City were unwilling to part ways with the highly rated defender, forcing Sundowns to explore other options. Van Rooyen subsequently became a realistic alternative because of his availability and extensive experience in South African football. His move to Chloorkop was unexpected given his recent association with Orlando Pirates, but his departure from the Soweto giants created an opportunity for Sundowns to secure an established defender. The transfer demonstrates how quickly clubs can have to adjust their recruitment plans when injuries create urgent squad requirements.

Van Rooyen arrives at Sundowns with a strong record from his years at Stellenbosch FC and Orlando Pirates. He spent eight years with Stellenbosch, the club from his hometown, and developed into an important player and leader during that period. He made a club-record 161 appearances for Stellenbosch and captained the side for two seasons, giving him valuable experience in handling pressure and responsibility. His achievements with the club include helping Stellenbosch win the 2019 National First Division title and lifting the 2023 Carling Knockout Cup. He later moved to Orlando Pirates, where he made 51 appearances, scoring one goal and providing one assist before the two parties agreed to end their relationship.

Cardoso revealed that he was aware of the movements surrounding Van Rooyen as Sundowns assessed their options. The coach explained that the club had an immediate need following the injury situation involving Mdunyelwa, although he also acknowledged that the full extent of the player’s injury was not initially known. Cardoso stressed that he continues to trust the players already within his squad and remains hopeful that Mudau could return sooner than expected. He also pointed to the presence of Morena and Mdunyelwa while explaining that Van Rooyen now gives the team another experienced option. The comments suggest that Sundowns view the new signing as additional support rather than a direct replacement for an injured player.

The arrival of Van Rooyen gives Cardoso greater flexibility when selecting his starting XI and managing his squad. Right-back is a physically demanding position that requires players to contribute both defensively and offensively, particularly within Sundowns’ possession-based approach. Having an experienced player available can reduce the pressure on other members of the squad during a congested fixture schedule. Van Rooyen’s previous experience in high-level domestic matches should also help him understand the intensity and expectations associated with playing for one of the country’s biggest clubs. His leadership experience could become another asset as he adjusts to a dressing room competing regularly for trophies.

Cardoso has also made it clear that Van Rooyen must adapt quickly to his new environment. Joining Sundowns means competing for places in a squad that has established high standards and regularly challenges for domestic and continental honours. The defender will need to understand the coach’s tactical instructions and build an understanding with his new teammates. His familiarity with South African top-flight football should help reduce the adjustment period, although adapting to a new tactical system will still require time. Cardoso will ultimately judge the signing by the contribution Van Rooyen makes on the pitch and by how effectively he integrates into the squad.

The coach’s comments also reflect the importance Sundowns place on squad unity. Cardoso said he hopes Van Rooyen will embrace the club while the club and his teammates also embrace him. That approach is important for a player arriving after an unexpected change in circumstances at another major club. Van Rooyen will have to establish himself within a squad containing experienced internationals and players who have already won major trophies together. A positive integration could help him compete for regular opportunities while giving Sundowns another dependable option when injuries, suspensions or fixture congestion affect selection.

The transfer could also have implications for competition within the Sundowns squad. Once Mudau and Mdunyelwa return to full fitness, Cardoso could have several options for the right-back position rather than relying on a small number of players. Competition for places can raise standards during training and give the coaching staff more tactical flexibility. Van Rooyen’s experience at both Stellenbosch and Orlando Pirates means he understands what it takes to perform under pressure in the Betway Premiership. His challenge will now be to demonstrate that he can meet the demands of Sundowns’ playing style and contribute consistently when selected.

Sundowns’ 2-1 victory over Golden Arrows also provided Cardoso with another reminder of the demands facing his team. The champions secured the result, but the competitive nature of the match showed why having sufficient depth will remain important throughout the season. Injuries can quickly disrupt a team’s plans, particularly when a club competes across multiple competitions. Van Rooyen’s arrival therefore gives Cardoso another experienced defensive option at a time when managing player availability is a key consideration. The defender’s presence could prove particularly useful as Sundowns navigate a busy schedule and continue targeting success on several fronts.

For Van Rooyen, the move represents an opportunity to begin another chapter at one of South Africa’s most successful clubs. His years at Stellenbosch established his reputation as a reliable defender and leader, while his time at Orlando Pirates exposed him to another demanding environment. Sundowns will expect him to use that experience to contribute immediately while learning the requirements of Cardoso’s system. The club also hopes that his arrival will help reduce the impact of the current injury crisis at right-back. If he adapts quickly, Van Rooyen could become an important squad member as the season progresses.

Miguel Cardoso’s explanation makes it clear that Mamelodi Sundowns acted decisively because of a genuine need for defensive depth. The club’s inability to sign Thabang Matuludi, combined with injuries to Khuliso Mudau and Zuko Mdunyelwa, accelerated the search for another right-back. Van Rooyen offers top-flight experience, leadership qualities and a proven record from his time with Stellenbosch FC and Orlando Pirates. Cardoso now wants the new signing to settle into the squad, embrace the club’s culture and contribute to the team’s pursuit of trophies. With Sundowns continuing to compete at the highest level, Van Rooyen has the chance to turn an unexpected transfer into an important role in the champions’ next chapter.