Reyaad Pieterse Set to Exit Mamelodi Sundowns as Squad Overhaul Begins
Mamelodi Sundowns are preparing for a major reshuffle ahead of the new season, and long-serving goalkeeper Reyaad Pieterse is among the players set to depart as the club trims its squad for the challenges ahead.
Pieterse, who arrived at Chloorkop in August 2018 from SuperSport United, has spent seven years at the club without ever fully cementing a first-team place. Despite his lengthy stay, the 33-year-old shot-stopper has made just 21 appearances in all competitions for the reigning Betway Premiership champions.
His last competitive outing for Sundowns came nearly 20 months ago, when he featured in a match against Stellenbosch FC. Since then, he has found himself pushed further down the pecking order behind Ronwen Williams, Denis Onyango, Jody February, and Sanele Tshabalala.
Although he has rarely featured on the pitch, Pieterse’s contract has reportedly seen him earn more than any other goalkeeper in the league this season — a factor that has previously complicated potential transfers due to the difficulty other clubs face in matching his current package.
However, with incoming head coach Miguel Cardoso eager to streamline the squad ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, Pieterse is expected to make way. The structure of his contract gives Sundowns the option to retain or release him, and current indications point toward an exit.
Pieterse’s departure aligns with the club’s strategy to finalise their squad ahead of the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup, where Sundowns will represent South Africa and the continent. The technical team is understood to be making tough decisions as they prepare for a more competitive and compact squad under new leadership.
With Williams firmly established as the number one and Onyango providing experienced backup, Sundowns appear confident in their goalkeeping depth. February and Tshabalala have also been part of the club’s long-term plans, leaving little room for Pieterse in the current setup.
As Sundowns continue to build for the future, Pieterse’s time at the club looks set to come to an end, closing a chapter that, while financially rewarding, never quite fulfilled its potential on the pitch.
