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The Downs strategist has given assurances about the future of the former Kaizer Chiefs star
Mamelodi Sundowns’ co-coach Manqoba Mngqithi says they are happy with the qualities they see in George Maluleka and that the midfielder will not leave the Tshwane giants.
Maluleka came to Sundowns in July after turning down a contract extension at Kaizer Chiefs.
Rumors that the 31-year-old could leave the Brazilians for Cape Town have been downplayed by Mngqithi, who insists the player is part of his plans.
“George is not going anywhere,” Mngqithi told Times Live.
“One thing I can tell you in advance is that George is in our plans. George is one of the players that we are still evaluating and we are happy with what we see and we think he can go from strength to strength.
“We know what it is capable of and we have no problem, so maybe [can] kill that [rumour] completely. There is just no problem with George and he knows he is in our plans. He’s working really hard and he’s lost a lot of weight and he looks great. “
Mngqithi, however, hinted that they could loan out some of their new players after the club signed at least 10 players during the current transfer window.
Some of the arrivals include forwards Peter Shalulile, Lesedi Kapinga, Kermit Erasmus ‚Gift Motupa and Peter Shalulile.
Downs’ goalkeeping department is now packed with stars, comprised of Denis Onyango, Kennedy Mweene, Reyaad Pieterse, Ricardo Goss and Jody February.
Other signings are Aubrey Modiba, Grant Margerman, Mothobi Mvala, Hashim Domingo and Luvuyo Phewa.
“I would not confirm that everyone will stay,” Mngqithi said.
“We still have to evaluate others and we haven’t had that much time. But we will not be selfish if we do not think that the player is going to play. We will be honest and frank and try to make it possible for those players to have a chance elsewhere.
“But we don’t want to be irrational, be unfair to other people’s children, not look at them and observe them impartially, and see what they have. We could also have limitations on the numbers we have to deal with.
“Over the years, we’ve always tried to make sure that we don’t have a very large team that has a lot of unhappy people who are unhappy when things don’t go their way. Honestly speaking, it’s always appropriate for me to do things the right way instead of holding someone back just because you have the power.
“We will give these guys a chance and see exactly if we think one, two or three of them will help us this season.
“And if we feel that we may not get the benefit, it doesn’t mean it’s the end of the road. Maybe we can still bring the player back next season or when that’s the case. But as it is now, one cannot compromise and say that the player is going to be in our plans. It’s not possible.”
In addition to the massive signings, Sundowns has also beefed up its technical department by bringing in ‘senior coach’ Steve Komphela to join Mngqithi and his co-coach Rhulani Mokwena.
