Matuludi’s Polokwane future uncertain after World Cup return

Thabang Matuludi’s return from the 2026 FIFA World Cup has been overshadowed by uncertainty over his future at Polokwane, with the Bafana defender yet to play for his club this season.

The 27-year-old was part of the South Africa squad that reached the knockout stages of the World Cup for the first time. Although he did not feature during the tournament, which concludes on Sunday, his involvement has increased interest in both his transfer prospects and his contract situation.

Matuludi has attracted enquiries from clubs in Gauteng, but his immediate position at Polokwane remains unclear. He is believed to be entering the final 12 months of his contract, while discussions over a possible move have taken place alongside negotiations about his deal.

The right-back has been back in training with Polokwane for more than a month since returning from the World Cup. He suffered a minor injury during his first week back in mid-July, but has since been available for selection.

Polokwane have played four matches so far this season. Matuludi missed the opening fixture against Richards Bay because he was serving the second game of a two-match suspension following the red card he received in the penultimate match of last season.

He was available for the following three games against Mamelodi Sundowns, Stellenbosch and Sekhukhune United. However, despite appearing set to start against Sekhukhune last Saturday, he was left out of the final team.

Matuludi had reportedly been included in Willy Moloto’s plans for the match. He took part in training exercises with the first XI and believed he would be selected, but was dropped during the final session before the game.

The reason for the change has not been established, leaving the defender frustrated. The uncertainty comes as transfer-related discussions continue at the same time as talks about his contract.

All transfer and contract matters at Polokwane are handled by club boss Johnny Mogaladi, a businessman known for standing firmly by his convictions.

Matuludi has spent his entire professional career with Polokwane. He joined the club six years ago from Limpopo ABC Motsepe League side The Dolphins, when Rise and Shine were playing in the First Division.

Polokwane are also set to receive an estimated gross payment of R2.9 million from the FIFA Club Benefits Programme following Matuludi’s selection for the Bafana squad at the World Cup.

His inclusion in South Africa’s historic campaign has therefore raised his profile, but it has not yet translated into regular first-team football at club level. With interest from Gauteng and his contract entering its final year, Matuludi’s next move remains one of the unresolved storylines at Polokwane.