Monnapule Saleng back in Sundowns first-team training ahead of MTN8 final

Monnapule Saleng has returned to Mamelodi Sundowns’ first-team training as the club steps up preparations for Saturday’s MTN8 final against Orlando Pirates.

The winger was part of the Sundowns squad that trained in full force on Wednesday as Miguel Cardoso’s side continued their preparations for the eagerly anticipated clash.

Saleng’s presence at first-team training is significant, having previously been sent to work with the club’s B team following disciplinary concerns.

The move away from the first team had raised questions about the player’s immediate future at the club and whether he would remain involved with the senior squad.

However, his return to first-team training suggests that the situation could be changing, with the player now back among Cardoso’s senior group as Sundowns prepare for a major domestic final.

Saleng has been one of the more talked-about players in the Sundowns squad since his arrival, and his attacking qualities could provide another option for Cardoso as he prepares his team for the showdown with Pirates.

The MTN8 final also adds an interesting dimension to Saleng’s return, given his previous association with Orlando Pirates, where he enjoyed a breakthrough period and became a key attacking figure.

For now, his involvement in first-team training does not necessarily mean he will be selected for the final, but it represents a notable development ahead of Saturday’s encounter.

Cardoso will have the final say on whether Saleng makes the matchday squad, with the winger now given the opportunity to work alongside the first-team players and prove his readiness.

Sundowns are expected to continue their preparations in the coming days, with the technical team also monitoring the fitness of Teboho Mokoena and Aubrey Modiba, who returned from international duty carrying injuries.

With the MTN8 final approaching, Saleng’s return to the first-team setup could provide an intriguing subplot as Sundowns look to put together their strongest possible squad for the clash with Orlando Pirates.