Miguel Cardoso must be sacked even if he wins CAF Champions League – Sundowns legend Eric “Tambai” Ramasike

Former Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Eric “Tambai” Ramasike has criticised head coach Miguel Cardoso for what he describes as the poor management of the club’s star-studded squad, insisting the Portuguese tactician should be dismissed regardless of the outcome of the CAF Champions League final.

Cardoso recently admitted that his players are battling physical and mental fatigue due to a demanding fixture schedule, but Ramasike believes the situation has been worsened by the coach’s handling of the squad.

According to the Sundowns legend, the team’s struggles stem from inadequate planning and a failure to rotate players effectively despite having a large squad at his disposal.

“The objective is to win the league; yet, against TS Galaxy, an unexpected selection was made—such as including Kegan Johannes, who had not played for over a month. Cardoso’s planning was inadequate, and his execution in the match was, frankly, poor,” laments Ramasike.

“Cardoso’s planning was poor and his decisions during the match were disappointing.”

Ramasike questioned how fatigue could be used as justification when Sundowns have a squad of about 35 players.

“Proper rotation was not implemented,” he says.

“Instead, players like Teboho Mokoena and Marcelo Allende were engaged repeatedly without adequate rest, despite the team’s depth. Cardoso has failed in this regard. It is unlikely that Orlando Pirates will lose both remaining matches.”

The former Moroka Swallows player also criticised Sundowns captain and goalkeeper Ronwen Williams, suggesting the Bafana Bafana shot-stopper should have been rested in recent matches.

“He should have been rested against Galaxy. Denis Onyango should have featured in at least two or three matches, as continuous play impacts a player’s mental state. This neglect contributed to the seven goals conceded in two games.”

While many supporters believe Cardoso’s future should depend on whether he secures a second CAF Champions League title for Sundowns, Ramasike insists the coach should leave even if he delivers continental success.

“Even if he wins the Champions League, Cardoso should be replaced,” he said, adding that the team’s performance is unsatisfactory.

“It is unreasonable to expect a player to perform consistently after participating in twenty-six consecutive matches, as fatigue inevitably affects performance. Proper squad rotation is essential. Cardoso’s mismanagement has ultimately undermined his position.”

Meanwhile, Mamelodi Sundowns will host AS FAR in the first leg of their CAF Champions League clash on Sunday.