Mamelodi Sundowns Urged to Reconcile with Lucas Ribeiro Costa as Hlompho Kekana Backs Possible Chloorkop Return

Mamelodi Sundowns have been urged to put aside their differences with Brazilian forward Lucas Ribeiro Costa and consider welcoming him back to Chloorkop despite the ongoing legal dispute between the two parties. The call comes from club legend Hlompho Kekana, who believes reconciliation could benefit both the player and the reigning Betway Premiership champions. Ribeiro’s departure from Sundowns in 2025 created one of the biggest controversies in South African football, with legal proceedings continuing long after he left the club. Despite the bitterness surrounding his exit, many still believe his footballing ability is too valuable to ignore. Kekana’s comments have reignited discussions about whether one of the league’s most talented attackers could eventually wear the Sundowns jersey once again.

Lucas Ribeiro Costa established himself as one of the Premier Soccer League’s standout performers during his time at Mamelodi Sundowns. The Brazilian quickly became a fan favourite thanks to his creativity, goals and ability to influence matches in the final third. Across 88 appearances in all competitions, Ribeiro contributed an impressive 37 goals and 23 assists while helping the club win several major trophies. His outstanding performances earned him the prestigious 2024 and 2025 PSL Footballer of the Season award, further highlighting his importance to the team. Few foreign players have made such a significant impact in such a short period, making his sudden departure even more surprising.

According to Kekana, the relationship between Ribeiro and the club was once built on mutual respect and appreciation before events surrounding the FIFA Club World Cup changed everything. Speaking on SoccerZone, the former Sundowns captain said everyone at the club admired the Brazilian and appreciated everything he had contributed. However, he believes decisions made during that period damaged what had previously been a strong relationship. Kekana stressed that disagreements are part of football and that both parties should eventually find common ground. He expressed hope that Ribeiro would acknowledge any mistakes that were made and take the first step toward rebuilding trust with the club.

Kekana believes there is still an opportunity for reconciliation if both sides are willing to move forward. He suggested that Ribeiro should swallow his pride, admit where things went wrong and approach Sundowns with the intention of making peace. In his view, the club would not automatically reject the player if genuine efforts were made to repair the relationship. Those comments have sparked debate among supporters, with some believing that football success should take priority over past disagreements. Others feel that discipline and professionalism must remain central to the club’s culture regardless of a player’s talent.

The situation has become more complicated because of the ongoing legal battle between Sundowns and Ribeiro. The Tshwane club referred the matter to the FIFA Football Tribunal, alleging that the player breached his contract when he left in August 2025. Early reports indicate that Sundowns were successful in the first stage of the proceedings, potentially leaving Ribeiro liable for a financial penalty estimated at R66 million. If those findings are upheld in the final ruling, his proposed move to Libyan side Al-Ittihad, where former Sundowns coach Rhulani Mokwena is currently based, could be blocked. Such an outcome would leave Ribeiro legally obligated to return to South Africa and complete the remainder of his contract with Sundowns.

Before his proposed move to Libya, Ribeiro had joined Spanish club Cultural y Deportiva Leonesa following his departure from Sundowns. That move failed to deliver the fresh start he had hoped for after the club suffered relegation, leaving him without long-term stability. As a result, speculation about his future has continued to grow while the FIFA case remains unresolved. His uncertain situation has only strengthened suggestions that a return to Chloorkop could become a realistic possibility if both sides can settle their differences. With his proven quality and experience, Ribeiro would immediately strengthen Sundowns’ attacking options if he were reintegrated into the squad.

There is little debate about what Ribeiro can offer on the field. His technical ability, vision, dribbling skills and eye for goal made him one of the most dangerous attackers in the Betway Premiership during his first spell with Sundowns. He consistently delivered in important matches and played a major role in the club’s domestic dominance. Bringing him back would provide head coach Miguel Cardoso with another world class attacking option while increasing competition within the squad. Although emotions still surround the circumstances of his departure, footballing decisions are often based on quality and the ability to help a team win trophies.

The final decision now rests on the outcome of the FIFA Football Tribunal and the willingness of both parties to rebuild their relationship. Hlompho Kekana’s appeal for peace has highlighted the possibility that reconciliation could still happen despite the legal and emotional challenges involved. If Ribeiro accepts responsibility where necessary and Sundowns decide to prioritise what he can contribute on the pitch, one of the most remarkable reunions in recent PSL history could become reality. His return would undoubtedly capture the attention of football supporters across South Africa and beyond. Until the legal process reaches its conclusion, the possibility of seeing Lucas Ribeiro Costa back in the famous yellow shirt remains one of the most intriguing stories in South African football.