MAMELODI Sundowns have reaffirmed their commitment to player development and growth amid recent controversies surrounding player transfers and welfare.
The Tshwane giants released an official statement on 21 August emphasising their dedication to player development and sustainable growth.
"The success and achievements of Mamelodi Sundowns over the past two decades have been based on its deep commitment to the development, growth and financial sustainability of the Club's players," said the club.
"The objective of Sundowns in these discussions and negotiations has always been to advance the interests of the player and the club, and to be fair and just, while contributing to the fulfilment of the interests of all parties," they said.
Following their participation in the Fifa Club World Cup 2025, Sundowns revealed they have received multiple enquiries from prominent football clubs interested in acquiring the services of certain players.
"Mamelodi Sundowns are committed to continuing with these discussions and negotiations, as part of their policy and deep commitment to advance the interests of the players and the club, as well as the fulfilment of the objectives and interests of all parties," they said.
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The statement comes in response to recent developments involving 26-year-old Lucas Ribeiro, who announced his intention to take Sundowns to the Fifa Football Tribunal.
"I believe that I have just cause to terminate my contract with Mamelodi Sundowns FC, which I will explain before the Fifa Football Tribunal," he said.
The Brazilian player referenced the recent Diarra ruling by the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU), expressing confidence that the dispute would not hinder his career progression.
"Following the Diarra ruling by the CJEU, there's no doubt that the dispute between me and my former club will not prevent me from continuing my career with peace of mind. Indeed, following its own regulations (as amended in light of the Diarra judgement), Fifa will see to it that the international transfer certificate be immediately delivered upon request by my future employer," he said.
He revealed he has received interest from various clubs.
"I will now consider what's best for the future of my career in order to make the right choice, the one that will allow me to flourish as a sportsman and try to provide for the future of my family, knowing that a player's career is short and unpredictable," he said.
Adding to the club's challenges, 21-year-old winger Thapelo Maseko recently made a shocking revelation about his mental health and relationship with football.
Thapelo shared a heartfelt post on Instagram, opening up about his struggles to maintain his passion for the game.
"I don't even know when it started, but lately it's like the fire in me is fading. I still train like my life depends on it... still push through every tired muscle, every mental battle, but inside it feels empty," he said.
He described how the game that once brought him joy now feels "heavier" and "colder".
