Williams says Saudi interest in Mokoena underlines Sundowns’ quality

Mamelodi Sundowns captain Ronwen Williams says reported interest from Saudi Pro League clubs in his team-mates is evidence of the quality within the African champions’ squad, with Teboho Mokoena attracting particular attention.

Williams was speaking before Saturday’s FIFA Intercontinental Cup Final against Saudi side Al Ahli at Loftus Versfeld. Reports have linked several Mamelodi Sundowns players with potential moves to the Middle East, a development the goalkeeper believes reflects the club’s growing reputation beyond Africa.

“Obviously, you know, we’ve seen reports in the media. We don’t know if it’s true or not. So, it shows that they’ve taken interest in some of our players, which is good. You know, it shows that the guys are doing well,” Williams said.

Mokoena’s international profile

Williams said Mokoena’s record in major international competitions had helped make him a player known to clubs outside Africa.

The midfielder has scored at the World Cup and Africa Cup of Nations, as well as in other major tournaments involving his country. Those performances, Williams suggested, were likely to have prompted Saudi clubs to monitor him more closely.

“And obviously, you know, if you score at the World Cup, people will know you. And Teboho scored at the World Cup. He scored at AFCON. He scored, you know, in all the big tournaments that we’ve played. So, obviously, I’m sure, you know, that they will obviously keep an eye on him,” he added.

Williams also recalled the increased attention from Saudi media after Mamelodi Sundowns’ opponents secured a victory, saying Mokoena was the player specifically mentioned.

“When they won their game as well, you know, you could see their media. They started, you know, checking up on our players. And, you know, the player that they did mention was Mokoena. And for obvious reasons, because of the goals that he scored, the number of goals he scored from midfield.”

Al Ahli linked with Mokoena

As reported by the Siya crew last month, Al Ahli have reportedly identified Mokoena as a possible replacement for Franck Kessie. The former Barcelona midfielder confirmed over the weekend that he was leaving for Serie A side Atalanta, creating a vacancy in Al Ahli’s midfield.

Kessie made 119 appearances and scored 26 goals during two seasons with the Saudi club. He was also named AFC Champions League Best Player for the 2025/26 edition, meaning Mokoena would face a significant challenge if the proposed move went ahead.

Yallakora, citing journalist Mohamed Al-Bakiri, reported that Al Ahli’s objective was to sign Mokoena. The midfielder has reportedly been attracting interest from the Gulf region since his impressive performances at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Williams said Mamelodi Sundowns’ reported interest was part of a wider trend, with South African players, coaches and technical staff already moving to the Saudi Pro League.

“I mean, we’ve seen a few of our players and some coaches and technical members in the Saudi league now, you know. So, you know, that’s good that we are exporting players, you know, into the big leagues. And now this will give us also a good opportunity to compete and see where our level is at,” he concluded.