Miguel Cardoso Explains Why Mamelodi Sundowns Gave Monnapule Saleng a Second Chance After Disciplinary Issues

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has explained why the club decided to give Monnapule Saleng another opportunity after the winger was separated from the first team over disciplinary issues. The former Orlando Pirates star had been required to train away from his teammates after falling foul of the club’s internal regulations. His return marks an important step in his efforts to rebuild his position at Sundowns and regain the trust of the coaching staff. Cardoso made it clear that the decision was not his alone, as several key figures within the club took part in the process. His comments also highlighted the importance of discipline, consistent training and mutual respect in determining whether a player deserves another chance.

Cardoso explained that Sundowns approached Saleng’s situation as a collective decision involving the coach, sporting director, players, team captains and club chairman. Rather than making a decision based only on footballing ability, the club considered the winger’s conduct during his time away from the first-team environment. Cardoso said the club wanted to give both parties an opportunity to move forward in a positive direction. This approach suggests that Sundowns were prepared to look beyond the disciplinary problems and assess whether Saleng could meet the standards expected of a professional player. The decision reflects an attempt to balance accountability with the possibility of redemption, especially when a player demonstrates a willingness to improve.

One of the main reasons behind Saleng’s return was his attitude during the period when he trained separately from the senior squad. Cardoso praised the winger for maintaining consistency in his training and respecting the values expected within a professional football team. The coach indicated that Saleng continued to follow those standards after rejoining the group. That response appears to have helped rebuild confidence in the player and strengthened the case for allowing him back into the first-team environment. For Sundowns, the important factor was not simply putting the disciplinary episode behind them, but seeing evidence that Saleng could move forward with a professional attitude.

Cardoso’s remarks about how other clubs might have handled the situation underline the significance of Sundowns’ decision. His statement that Saleng might not have been included in the same process at other clubs suggests that the winger received an opportunity that could have been difficult to secure elsewhere. It also highlights the club’s willingness to work through a challenging situation instead of immediately closing the door on the player. However, the second chance does not mean that the disciplinary concerns have become irrelevant or that Saleng is free from expectations. The winger must continue to demonstrate the same consistency and respect that reportedly helped him return to the squad. His future at the club will depend on whether he can maintain those standards while contributing positively to the team.

Although Saleng has returned to training with his teammates, Cardoso has stressed that he will not automatically receive playing time. Mamelodi Sundowns have a strong squad with several attacking options competing for limited places in the starting line-up. The coach explained that selection has become more difficult because the club has greater depth in the forward positions than it had in previous seasons. This competition means that even established players can struggle to secure a place in the matchday squad. Saleng must therefore prove his value through training performances, fitness, consistency and his ability to meet the tactical demands placed on him.

Cardoso referred to the availability of other attacking players to explain the challenge Saleng faces in trying to secure a regular role. He mentioned Arthur Sales, Lebo Mothiba and Tsiki Ntsabeleng while discussing the number of options available to Sundowns in forward areas. His comments made it clear that Saleng is not the only player competing for opportunities. Even talented footballers may have to wait when several players are performing well or when the coach needs a particular tactical balance. For Saleng, returning to the first team is an important achievement, but it is only the beginning of the next stage of his journey. He will need to turn his renewed opportunity into convincing performances if he wants to become a regular selection.

The coach also placed considerable emphasis on rebuilding trust between himself and Saleng. Cardoso explained that a successful relationship requires confidence on both sides, with the player trusting the coach and the coach trusting the player. That relationship can be particularly important after a disciplinary dispute because both parties need to move beyond the earlier problems. Consistent behaviour and honest communication can help create the conditions for Saleng to focus fully on his football. The coach’s comments suggest that Sundowns want to establish a constructive working relationship rather than allow the situation to continue affecting the player’s progress. Restoring that confidence could prove just as important as his performances on the training ground.

Saleng’s return also presents an opportunity for Mamelodi Sundowns to benefit from his attacking qualities, provided he earns his place in the team. His reputation as a talented winger gives the club another option in the final third, where pace, creativity and the ability to challenge defenders can be valuable. However, reputation alone will not guarantee selection in a squad where competition for places remains intense. Cardoso has made it clear that the club expects every player to meet its standards and compete for opportunities. Saleng must now show that he can combine his footballing ability with the discipline and consistency required at a club with Sundowns’ ambitions.

Ultimately, Miguel Cardoso’s explanation shows that Mamelodi Sundowns have chosen to give Monnapule Saleng a second chance while maintaining clear expectations. The decision followed a collective assessment of the situation and recognition of the winger’s conduct during his time away from the first team. His return provides a route back into contention, but it does not guarantee an immediate place in the starting line-up or even the matchday squad. Saleng will need to keep earning the trust of Cardoso and his teammates through his behaviour and performances. If he continues to meet the club’s standards, the opportunity could become an important turning point in his Sundowns career.