Mamelodi Sundowns make FC Dallas loanee Katlego Ntsabeleng’s move permanent

Mamelodi Sundowns have completed the permanent signing of Katlego “Tsiki” Ntsabeleng from Major League Soccer club FC Dallas after exercising the purchase option in his loan agreement.

The 28-year-old midfielder spent last season with the Betway Premiership champions, making 11 appearances in the competition. He scored twice and provided one assist during his loan spell in South Africa.

FC Dallas confirmed the deal, bringing Ntsabeleng’s four-season association with the American club to an end. The midfielder had been contracted to the MLS outfit since making his professional debut in 2022.

“Midfielder Tsiki Ntsabeleng has completed a permanent transfer to Mamelodi Sundowns after the South African club exercised its purchase option following his season-long loan,” the club said in a statement.

Ntsabeleng’s move gives Sundowns a permanent agreement for a player who had already featured for them during the previous campaign. His performances while on loan were enough for the Johannesburg club to activate the option included in the original deal.

The midfielder scored two goals and recorded one assist in his 11 Betway Premiership appearances for Sundowns. He will now remain with the club on a long-term basis rather than return to FC Dallas after the conclusion of his loan.

The transfer also marks the latest stage in Ntsabeleng’s professional career, which began with FC Dallas. He made 92 appearances in all competitions for the club across four seasons, scoring two goals and supplying seven assists.

“Ntsabeleng registered 92 appearances, two goals, and seven assists in all competitions with FC Dallas across four seasons.

“The Johannesburg native made his professional debut with FC Dallas on Feb. 26, 2022, against Toronto FC in the 73rd minute.

Ntsabeleng’s first professional appearance came as a substitute, when he entered the match against Toronto FC in the 73rd minute. That debut took place on 26 February 2022, before he went on to make almost 100 appearances for FC Dallas in all competitions.

His return to South Africa as a loan player last season preceded the permanent switch to Sundowns. The club’s decision to complete the transfer means he will continue his career with the side after registering three direct goal contributions in the Betway Premiership.

The announcement comes as Sundowns continue their pursuit of success across six competitions. The club’s focus on retaining Ntsabeleng follows a season in which he was given regular opportunities during his temporary spell.

For FC Dallas, the transfer formally concludes the player’s time with the club. For Sundowns, it secures the services of the Johannesburg-born midfielder after his season-long loan, with the purchase option now exercised and the move officially completed.