Miguel Cardoso: Champions League glory is reward enough after Mamelodi Sundowns’ success

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso says he does not seek personal recognition for guiding the South African club to the CAF Champions League title, insisting the players deserve the credit for their historic triumph.

The Portuguese coach led Sundowns to only their second African crown in May, when they beat Morocco’s AS FAR Rabat in the final to end a nine-year wait for continental success after their 2016 triumph under Pitso Mosimane.

The Champions League proved to be Sundowns’ only major trophy of the season after they surrendered the Betway Premiership title to Orlando Pirates and fell short in other domestic competitions.

Asked whether he felt sufficiently appreciated for delivering the continental title, Cardoso said recognition was no longer what drove him.

“I don’t work for recognition at all,” he said.

“When I was younger, I thought recognition would be very important. Now I work to enjoy life and to enjoy my job.”

Cardoso, whose father also had a career in football, said the demands of coaching meant he sacrificed time with his family, making it even more important to find fulfilment in his work.

“My job is a pleasure for me,” he said. “There are a lot of things I already miss that have to do with life, and that is the most important thing.”

The 54-year-old added that he preferred to leave the spotlight to his squad rather than claim individual praise for their achievements.

“I don’t really take it personally,” he said. “I just enjoy it and let my players have the credit for everything I do and can do for them.”