Arendse backs Cardoso to revive Sundowns as pressure grows

Former Mamelodi Sundowns defender Wayne Arendse believes it is too soon for concern to turn into panic at the African champions, insisting coach Miguel Cardoso will soon improve the team’s performances.

Sundowns are currently third on the log table, but their displays have been unconvincing in some matches this season. Cardoso is still testing different combinations within his squad, a process that has led to frequent changes in the starting lineup.

Some supporters have blamed those alterations for the team’s inconsistent form, but Arendse believes the coach is using the early part of the campaign to assess the depth available to him.

“It’s too early to press the panic button; things will improve,” shares Arendse, speaking toKickOff.

The former defender said he understood why Cardoso was rotating his players, particularly because the squad includes footballers who participated in the World Cup and others who are waiting for opportunities.

“I understand where Cardoso is coming from because you are working with a squad of players, including those who participated in the World Cup, and at the same time, you want to give them opportunities.

“Otherwise, when are you going to give them a chance? In what game? It’s the right move that he did on Sunday against Sekhukhune United to see clearly the depth of his team.

Arendse described the selection changes as a normal part of management for a coach working with players who have not featured regularly. He suggested that Cardoso is using the matches to identify which members of his squad can make a contribution during the season.

“It’s normal for any coach to include players who haven’t played often. Cardoso is likely reviewing his options, ticking off names of those who can help the team this season.

His comments come with Sundowns still positioned near the top of the table, despite the uncertainty surrounding the side’s performances and team selections. The former Mamelodi Sundowns player also believes there are signs that Cardoso has a clear direction for the club.

“You can definitely see that Cardoso has a plan going forward, so it’s too early to push the panic button.”

The Brazilians will have an opportunity to respond on Wednesday when they face AmaZulu FC at Loftus Versfeld Stadium. The match is scheduled to begin at 19:30.

For now, Arendse’s message is that supporters should allow Cardoso time to assess his squad and settle on the combinations he believes can deliver. While the frequent changes have prompted criticism from some sections of the fanbase, the former defender maintains that the process is part of determining which players can help Sundowns this season.