Sundowns bring Cassius Mailula back for domestic title campaign

Mamelodi Sundowns have strengthened their attack by re-signing striker Cassius Mailula before beginning their domestic campaign on Saturday.

The move gives The Brazilians another attacking option as they look to respond after losing the Betway Premiership title to Orlando Pirates last season. That defeat brought an end to Sundowns’ eight-year dominance of South African football.

Mailula’s return comes after Sundowns endured disappointment in the league but recovered their season by winning the CAF Champions League. The forward now rejoins the club as they prepare for the start of a new domestic campaign.

Sundowns confirmed the deal on social media, describing Mailula as a familiar figure returning to the club.

“A familiar face returns to where it all began. Cassius Mailula is back in yellow, ready for a new chapter with The Brazilians,” the club tweeted.

Mailula will add to an attacking group that already includes Brayan Leon, Arthur Sales and Lebogang Mothiba. His arrival further increases the competition for places in the Sundowns forward line ahead of Saturday’s opening fixture.

The striker is the third player to join Sundowns during the current transfer window. The club have also signed Antonio van Wyk and Siyanda Ndlovu.

Katlego Ntsabeleng has likewise remained part of the squad after his loan move was made permanent.

Sundowns’ recruitment comes as they attempt to regain the Betway Premiership title from Orlando Pirates. Their previous eight-year run as champions was ended last season, although victory in the CAF Champions League ensured the campaign still ended with major silverware.

Mailula’s return offers Sundowns additional firepower as they begin the next phase of their season. The club will hope the reshaped squad can compete domestically while building on the success achieved in Africa.

The re-signing also marks a return to familiar surroundings for Mailula, who is back in the Sundowns colours and ready to begin what the club described as a new chapter.