Khoza credits Mngqithi for move that transformed his Sundowns career

Malibongwe Khoza says former Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Manqoba Mngqithi played a decisive role in converting him from a midfielder into a centre-back, a change that has helped shape his emergence at the club.

The 22-year-old defender is enjoying a breakthrough season with the reigning CAF champions under Portuguese head coach Miguel Cardoso. He has established himself in the Sundowns first team, impressing with his composure, authority and maturity in central defence.

Khoza’s path to that position, however, began in midfield during his development.

In an exclusive interview with KickOff, he explained that Mngqithi identified defensive qualities in his game and encouraged him to move into the backline. Mngqithi worked with Khoza from his early academy years until December 2024, serving as both senior assistant coach and head coach at Chloorkop.

During that period, Khoza progressed through the DStv Diski Challenge structures before making his senior breakthrough.

The defender said the strength of Sundowns’ midfield was also a factor in the decision to change his position.

“It happened when I got to the first team; the midfield was stacked with quality players,” Khoza told KickOff.

“It was a bit of a challenge for me to play, but the coach (Manqoba Mngqithi) believed in me, my talent, so he said I should try playing at the back because I’m comfortable, especially with how we are playing as Sundowns: we started at the back, and we need comfortability going forward; that’s how I became a centre-back.”

Khoza has since become a key option in a Sundowns defence that has benefited from his ability to remain calm while asserting himself against opposing attacks.

He also spoke about Mngqithi’s wider influence, describing the coach as someone who understood both his players and the demands of coaching.

“Firstly, a father figure to everyone. He played a big role in coaching and understanding a player. He played a big role; he understands his players, and his players have to understand also, in terms of what he wants. I think he is a very good guy, good at coaching. A father figure, as I said.”

Mngqithi’s time working with Khoza ended in December 2024, but the defender says the former coach’s decision to reposition him has had a lasting effect on his career.

Khoza’s progress has now seen him move from the club’s junior structures into an important role for the senior side, with his first-team development continuing under Cardoso.