Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso calls for greater recognition of Portuguese coaches in Africa

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has expressed frustration that football authorities in Portugal do not sufficiently recognise the impact made by Portuguese coaches working in Africa.

Cardoso believes their contributions to African football deserve far greater acknowledgement in their country of origin, highlighting the growing influence of Portuguese tacticians on the continent.

Cardoso pointed to former Al Ahly SC coach Manuel José as a prime example, noting his remarkable success in Africa, including multiple CAF Champions League triumphs.

José remains one of the most decorated coaches in African club football history, having won the CAF Champions League four times with the Egyptian giants.

“It’s a shame that even in my country in Portugal they don’t recognise the level of the work some of our coaches have done here in Africa. Even Manuel José doesn’t get the recognition he deserves,” Cardoso said.

The Sundowns coach also highlighted that his upcoming opponent in the CAF Champions League, Alexandre Santos, is another example of a Portuguese manager making an impact in African football.

Santos will lead AS FAR against Sundowns in what promises to be a high-stakes tactical battle at Loftus Versfeld.

Cardoso’s remarks underline the growing footprint of Portuguese coaching expertise in African football, particularly in elite continental competitions.