Agent Reveals Themba Zwane Nearly Left Mamelodi Sundowns Before Contract Renewal: “He Was Honest and Brutal”

Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Themba Zwane came close to the end of his long career at the club before signing a new contract, according to his agent Jazzman Mahlakgane. The revelation sheds light on a tense and uncertain period for one of South Africa’s most respected footballers. Zwane, a key figure for Sundowns and the national team, reportedly believed his time at the club could be over as negotiations dragged on. The situation created anxiety for the player, who has been with the club since 2011 and built a legacy over more than a decade. His future only became clear after a late breakthrough that secured a one-year extension.

Mahlakgane explained that Zwane struggled emotionally with the lack of clarity from the club during contract talks. He said the midfielder began to fear that he would be phased out like other senior players had been in the past. This uncertainty affected Zwane’s mindset, especially as his previous deal neared its expiry without immediate confirmation of renewal. The agent had to repeatedly reassure him that Sundowns still valued his contribution. He described moments where Zwane openly questioned whether his career at the top level was coming to an end.

The concern grew stronger because Zwane had seen similar situations play out with other experienced players at major clubs. This influenced his thinking and made him believe he might be heading in the same direction. Mahlakgane said he had to be firm with his client and even guarantee that a new deal would eventually be secured. He also pointed to Zwane’s ambition to remain at the highest level and represent South Africa at major tournaments as motivation during the difficult period. The midfielder’s doubts, however, remained until negotiations finally progressed.

Zwane himself acknowledged the uncertainty publicly after Mamelodi Sundowns’ CAF Champions League success. At the time, he was unable to confirm whether he would stay at the club, which added to speculation about his future. His agent described those comments as an honest reflection of what was happening behind the scenes. He said Zwane did not sugarcoat the situation and admitted that he genuinely did not know what would happen next. The statement “I’m not so sure” captured the mood of that period, when even a decorated club icon had no clear answers about his future.

Despite the tension, Mahlakgane believes Zwane still has more to offer at Mamelodi Sundowns. The midfielder featured regularly last season, often coming off the bench as the club managed his workload. His agent credited his professionalism, discipline and lifestyle for allowing him to maintain a high level well into his mid-thirties. Zwane has now added another chapter to his career by committing to the club once more. The episode highlights both the uncertainty senior players can face and the value Sundowns still see in one of their most influential figures.