Mamelodi Sundowns consider Miguel Cardoso suspension after shock Champions League exit

Mamelodi Sundowns are reportedly considering the future of head coach Miguel Cardoso following disappointing results in the CAF Champions League, with experienced coaches Steve Komphela and Manqoba Mngqithi emerging as potential interim replacements.

As per reports, Sundowns’ management held an emergency board meeting on Monday to assess the team’s performances on the continental stage, with concerns raised over Cardoso’s failure to meet key objectives.

The club’s hierarchy, however, decided to temporarily entrust the team to Komphela and Mngqithi as discussions over the Portuguese coach’s future intensified.

However, the situation reportedly became more complicated on Tuesday when the club’s management briefed owner and CAF president Dr Patrice Motsepe on the outcome of the meeting.

Motsepe, who was in England after attending the Ballon d’Or ceremony in London, was reportedly advised against making an immediate decision on Cardoso’s dismissal, with suggestions that the coach should be allowed to continue in his position for the time being.

The development has allegedly triggered further consultations within the Sundowns camp, leaving uncertainty surrounding Cardoso’s immediate future as the club weighs its options.

Komphela and Mngqithi would bring considerable familiarity and experience to the role should the club decide to make a temporary change. The two coaches have previously worked together at Sundowns and played important roles in the club’s domestic success.

Their experience of managing the Pretoria-based side could make them suitable candidates to steady the team if the management eventually decides to part ways with Cardoso.

For now, however, the reported discussions have not been independently confirmed, and there has been no verified official announcement that Cardoso has been suspended or replaced.

Sundowns’ next decision will be crucial as the club seeks to address its continental ambitions while maintaining its position among South Africa’s leading teams.