Sekhukhune United close in on former Mamelodi Sundowns star Rivaldo Coetzee

Former Mamelodi Sundowns star Rivaldo Coetzee is on the brink of a fresh chapter in his career, with Sekhukhune United set to secure the services of the experienced defender ahead of the business end of the season.

The former Mamelodi Sundowns star has spent much of the current campaign without a club after parting ways with the Betway Premiership champions, bringing an end to a lengthy and injury-disrupted spell in Tshwane.

Now, Sekhukhune United are moving swiftly to bring the 27-year-old into their ranks, viewing him as both a short-term boost and a long-term asset as they continue their push for a CAF competition spot.

Coetzee’s career has been one of immense promise tempered by persistent injury setbacks. After bursting onto the scene with Ajax Cape Town, he quickly established himself as one of South Africa’s brightest defensive prospects, even attracting interest from European heavyweights such as Celtic FC.

However, a dream move to Scotland collapsed following a failed medical, with an underlying foot injury halting the transfer. Ironically, that setback paved the way for his switch to Sundowns, where he would go on to spend nine years.

Despite his undeniable quality, Coetzee’s time at Sundowns was frequently interrupted by spells on the sidelines, limiting his ability to consistently showcase his talent. Nevertheless, he remained a valuable member of the squad, contributing to the club’s domestic dominance and gaining vital CAF Champions League experience along the way.

For Sekhukhune United, that continental experience could prove crucial. Under the guidance of Eric Tinkler, the club is mounting a serious challenge for a CAF qualification spot, and the addition of a player with Coetzee’s pedigree could strengthen their ambitions.

Should the deal be finalized, it would mark a significant opportunity for Coetzee to reignite his career and remind South African football of the immense talent that once made him one of the country’s most highly rated defenders.