Zuko Mdunyelwa’s Mamelodi Sundowns future uncertain amid right-back competition

Zuko Mdunyelwa’s future at Mamelodi Sundowns is expected to be reviewed, with the defender potentially allowed to leave at the end of the season.

The 27-year-old has been out of the matchday squad for the past few weeks after suffering an injury. Although he is understood to have recovered and is working to regain his place, competition for the right-back position has increased following the arrivals of Thabang Matuludi and Deano van Rooyen.

Matuludi has made an impressive start since moving to Sundowns from Polokwane City, contributing goals and assists while covering for Khuliso Mudau.

The Bafana Bafana right-back opened his Sundowns scoring account at the weekend by scoring twice in a 4-1 victory over Durban City at Royal Bafokeng Stadium.

For now, Matuludi appears to have moved ahead of Mdunyelwa in the pecking order. Experienced defender Thapelo Morena has also been used at right-back when Sundowns rotate their squad.

Mudau could return in early 2027, creating further competition for places and making Mdunyelwa’s route back into the starting line-up more difficult.

It is still early in the process, but Soccer Laduma understands Sundowns may consider allowing Mdunyelwa to seek regular first-team football elsewhere.

However, a departure during the January transfer window is considered unlikely.