‘Tell us the truth about Monnapule Saleng’ – Benson Mhlongo demands clarity on Mamelodi Sundowns exile

Former Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates midfielder Benson Mhlongo has called for greater clarity over Monnapule Saleng’s situation at the Brazilians, questioning the circumstances behind the winger’s continued absence.

Mhlongo’s comments come after Sundowns head coach Miguek Cardoso disclosed that Saleng had been separated from the squad after failing to report for a Champions League fixture and later refusing to join the team’s training camp.

The 28-year-old has yet to feature for Sundowns in their opening two matches of the season, leaving questions over his future and his relationship with the club.

Mhlongo believes Cardoso’s explanation has not completely cleared up the situation and says there could be other factors behind Saleng’s exclusion.

“Saleng’s issue is confusing because nobody is coming out to reveal the real issue,” he told KickOff.

“We don’t know if it has to do with money or personal issues.

“The last time at Pirates, his issue was money, so this time… maybe he is one of the boys who don’t want to sit on the bench.

“Nobody knows the truth. Sundowns is an institution that believes in playing in a certain system; players must fit in.”

Mhlongo urges Saleng to report for training

Saleng’s situation bears similarities to the problems he experienced at Pirates, where he spent more than a year without playing before eventually leaving the club in January.

Mhlongo stressed that players have responsibilities beyond matchday and urged Saleng to return to training if he wants to revive his prospects at Sundowns.

“My message to all the players is, remember you are not only paid to play a match, but you are also paid to report for training.

“You are paid to be a team player. Some players get to start, some sit on the bench, and some watch from the stands,” he added.

The former Bafana Bafana midfielder also warned that Saleng faces a difficult battle to break into a Sundowns side packed with attacking options.

‘It all comes down to timing’

Mhlongo believes Saleng’s chances could also depend on timing, arguing that joining a club with established performers can make it difficult for a new player to secure regular football.

“When you join Sundowns, you must first evaluate if you are better than the players they already have.

“If I had joined Pirates in the days of Old-John Mabizela, there was no way I was going to play because Mabizela was in form.

“It all comes down to timing,” Mhlongo explained.

He further cautioned players against relying solely on agents when making career decisions, insisting they must understand the competition for places at their clubs.

“Some agents are not honest with their players; they are just chasing transactions.

“It is vital for players to understand the hierarchy and the level of performance required to displace an incumbent starter.”