Why Brian Mandela is still at Mamelodi Sundowns despite contract expiry
By Collins Amanga, July 15, 2023
Despite his contract reportedly expiring on June 30, 2023, Harambee Stars defender Brian Mandela Onyango is still training with the Mamelodi Sundowns,
It has now emerged that there are ongoing contract negotiations to retain Mandela who has been linked with a move to TP Mazembe.
Brian Mandela’s presence
According to reports from Soccer Laduma, Mandela’s presence during the preseason camp indicates the club’s intention to keep him.
The outlet suggests that the centre-back could potentially be offered a two-year contract if the discussions prove successful.
“He could not still be with the team if they didn’t need him. I think they still need him though as a player he is not quite sure of his future.
“But if they are not telling you to leave then there is hope. So, for now, I think the team is just buying time, but they still need him,” a source quoted by Laduma stated.
The source further mentioned that Mandela’s versatility and the need for depth in the central defender position make him valuable to the team.
Brian Mandela still needed
Despite uncertainties surrounding his future, there is still potential for him to contribute on the field, especially as cover for injuries or suspensions.
During the recently concluded season, Mandela played a crucial role in Mamelodi Sundowns‘ successful campaign, which led to them clinching the Premier Soccer League title.
The team displayed an impressive record of 21 wins, seven draws, and two losses. Mandela appeared in nine matches, accumulating a total of 781 minutes on the field, including seven starts and two substitute appearances.
Mandela has enjoyed a distinguished career in South Africa, having made a total of 156 appearances, with 146 starts and 12,367 minutes of playing time.
Before joining Sundowns in 2020, he had previous stints with Maritzburg and Santos. Additionally, Mandela has claimed three league titles with Mamelodi Sundowns in the 2020/2021, 2021/2022, and the most recent seasons.
The 28-year-old defender can be registered as a local player in South Africa. Since joining the Brazilians from Maritzburg United on an initial three-year deal, he has made 35 appearances for the Harambee Stars, scoring three goals in the process.