Mamelodi Sundowns Reportedly Offer Lebogang Mothiba New One-Year Contract
Mamelodi Sundowns are reportedly preparing to keep experienced striker Lebogang Mothiba at the club by offering him a new one-year contract ahead of the 2026/27 season. The move suggests that the Betway Premiership champions still believe the former Bafana Bafana forward has an important role to play despite limited opportunities during his first season at Chloorkop. Sundowns continue to reshape their squad as they prepare for another demanding campaign that includes domestic and continental competitions. The reported contract offer comes shortly after the departure of long-serving striker Peter Shalulile, a decision that has generated significant discussion among supporters. If the extension is finalized, Mothiba will have another opportunity to prove his value in one of Africa’s strongest squads.
According to information reported by Soccer Laduma, Sundowns are eager to retain Mothiba as part of their plans for the upcoming season. Sources close to the club indicate that the technical team remains confident in the striker’s experience and ability, even though he featured only occasionally during the previous campaign. The reported decision highlights the club’s belief that his contribution extends beyond goals alone. His experience at both club and international level could prove valuable in a squad that competes across multiple tournaments every season. Keeping experienced professionals is often seen as an important part of maintaining stability in a successful team.
The reported decision has attracted attention because it comes after Sundowns allowed Peter Shalulile to leave the club. Shalulile established himself as one of the most prolific forwards in the club’s history, making his departure one of the biggest stories of the transfer window. A source close to the club acknowledged that supporters have questioned why Shalulile departed while Mothiba is reportedly being offered a new deal. The insider described such decisions as some of the most difficult that football clubs have to make. Every contract renewal involves balancing a player’s age, fitness, future potential and overall role within the squad.
According to the same source, Sundowns are expected to continue their long-standing approach of offering shorter contracts to experienced players. Rather than handing out lengthy agreements, the club reportedly prefers one-year extensions for senior members of the squad. This policy allows the club to evaluate performances on a season-by-season basis while maintaining flexibility in future transfer windows. The source suggested that established players such as Themba Zwane are also likely to receive similar short-term renewals instead of longer contracts. Such an approach reflects the club’s careful planning as it manages an experienced squad alongside emerging talent.
Mothiba arrived at Mamelodi Sundowns last season after spending several months without a club. Before completing his move to the Tshwane giants, he had also been linked with Kaizer Chiefs as speculation surrounded his future. His arrival was viewed as an opportunity for the striker to revive his career after an extended period away from competitive football. Having previously built a successful career in France with clubs including Strasbourg and Lille, Mothiba brought valuable international experience to the Sundowns dressing room. His European background and experience with Bafana Bafana made him an interesting addition to an already talented squad.
The 30-year-old found opportunities limited during the 2025/26 campaign but still contributed when called upon. He made 11 appearances across all competitions while registering one goal and one assist in the Betway Premiership. Although those numbers may appear modest, they do not necessarily reflect his overall contribution to the team environment. Competition for places at Sundowns remains exceptionally high, with several quality attacking players competing for limited starting positions. In such an environment, patience and professionalism often become just as important as on-field statistics.
The reported contract extension could provide Mothiba with a fresh opportunity to establish himself during the upcoming season. Sundowns face another packed schedule that includes league football, domestic cup competitions and continental tournaments, meaning squad depth will be essential. Experienced players who can contribute whenever called upon often become valuable assets over the course of a long campaign. Mothiba’s physical presence, technical ability and experience at the highest level could offer the coaching staff useful options in different tactical situations. Remaining fully fit will be one of the key factors in determining how much he contributes next season.
At the time of publication, Mamelodi Sundowns had not officially commented on the reported contract offer despite being approached by Soccer Laduma. Until the club confirms the agreement, the proposed extension remains unconfirmed. Even so, the reports indicate that Sundowns continue to value Mothiba’s experience as they prepare for another season filled with high expectations. With Peter Shalulile’s departure creating space in the attacking department, the coming months could provide Mothiba with an important opportunity to play a bigger role. If the new one-year deal is completed, the striker will be aiming to reward the club’s confidence by delivering stronger performances and helping Sundowns compete for more domestic and continental silverware.
