Ngwenya says Sundowns won transfer-window battle with Pirates

Mamelodi Sundowns legend Manqoba “Shakes” Ngwenya believes his former club strengthened its squad more effectively than Orlando Pirates during the latest transfer window.

The window closed on Monday, 21 September 2026, after Sundowns made a late and assertive move in the local market. They added eight players to an already star-studded squad: Wandile Dube, Thabang Matuludi, Deano van Rooyen, Thabo Cele, Antonio van Wyk, Cassius Malula, Siyanda Ndlovu and Katlego Ntsabeleng.

Ngwenya regards Siyanda Ndlovu as one of Sundowns’ most significant additions and says Pirates will regret failing to secure the player.

“Siyanda Ndlovu has proved to be a good signing for Sundowns; Orlando Pirates missed out on a good player there,” Ngwenya told KICK OFF.

He also highlighted the arrival of Thabang Matuludi, whose signing has added competition at right-back while Khuliso Mudau faces a lengthy injury absence.

“ There is Matuludi, who is also a big signing for Sundowns since Mudau is going to be out injured for a long time. It will be hard for Khuliso Mudau to reclaim the right-back position from Matuludi, both at the club and in the national team. I think there will be a battle for that right-back spot.”

Ngwenya acknowledged that Pirates had also recruited well, pointing to Ghampani Lungu’s immediate influence. However, he believes Sundowns’ wider business has established a standard for the rest of the league.

“I think Pirates also made some good signings, like Ghampani Lungu, who has come in and made an immediate impact. You can tell they are serious about the Champions League. I believe Sundowns have set a benchmark for everyone.”

Sundowns’ increased depth is particularly important given the number of competitions they will contest during the season. Ngwenya said the club had not simply added numbers, but had created greater competition across the squad.

“But Sundowns have done well by adding more competition and depth to their squad because of the tournaments they will be participating in this season.”

He expects the campaign to be demanding but remains satisfied with the balance of the squad, which combines emerging talent with experienced players.

“It’s going to be another tough season. I’m happy with Sundowns’ signings; they are well balanced. They have both young players and experienced ones in their squad.”