Aubrey Modiba ready to help Thabang Matuludi settle at Mamelodi Sundowns

Mamelodi Sundowns defender Aubrey Modiba says new signing Thabang Matuludi will not feel like a stranger at the club, with the experienced left-back taking responsibility for helping his fellow defender settle into life at Chloorkop.

Matuludi, who operates primarily as a right-back, recently joined Sundowns and is currently adapting to his new surroundings, teammates and the demands of the club.

Modiba revealed that he has already taken the young defender under his wing, with the pair even sharing a room while they are together in the Bafana Bafana camp.

According to Modiba, the arrangement has given him an opportunity to help Matuludi understand the culture at Sundowns and adjust more quickly to the team’s methods.

“You know I’m so happy for him, he came and he’s sharing a room with me,” Modiba said.

“I’m treating him so that he can easily settle in well in the team. He came just last week, so he’s still getting used to how we do things and how we play.”

Having joined only recently, Matuludi is still at the early stages of his integration into the Sundowns squad. The defender must become familiar with the club’s playing philosophy, training environment and expectations, while also building relationships with his new teammates.

Modiba believes providing that support can make the transition considerably easier for the new arrival. Rather than allowing Matuludi to navigate the adjustment period alone, the Bafana international is determined to ensure that his teammate feels comfortable within the squad.

The fact that both defenders are currently together in the Bafana Bafana camp also provides an opportunity for their relationship to develop away from the club environment.

Modiba and Matuludi are part of the South African national team squad preparing for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. Their time together on international duty could further help the pair build an understanding before returning to Sundowns.

For Matuludi, the move represents an opportunity to establish himself at one of South Africa’s leading clubs, but the immediate priority will be adapting to a new environment and earning the trust of his teammates and technical staff.

Modiba’s willingness to guide him could prove valuable during that process, particularly as the newcomer learns the tactical demands and culture associated with Sundowns.

With both players currently focused on their international responsibilities with Bafana Bafana, Matuludi will continue his adaptation to his new club alongside a teammate who is determined to make sure he feels at home from the beginning.