Liverpool legend targeted by Mamelodi Sundowns in stunning coaching shake-up.
Sundowns are on the verge of making a sensational addition to their technical team, and it could come in the form of former Reds goalkeeping coach, John Achterberg.
According to Soccer Laduma, the reigning Betway Premiership champions are actively considering the Dutch-born coach to join their elite backroom staff. This move could mark a pivotal moment in the club’s ambition to dominate both domestically and across Africa.
Sundowns eye world-class goalkeeper coach
With Kennedy Mweene now fully transitioned into a coaching role after his retirement, Sundowns continue to search for another goalkeeping expert to work alongside him. The club’s need became urgent following their December overhaul, when they released longtime goalkeeper coach Wendell Robinson, along with Manqoba Mngqithi and Romain Folz.
Although Miguel Cardoso and his new team stepped in to take the reins, they did not include a specialized goalkeeper coach—leaving a crucial gap in the technical setup.
Now, John Achterberg has emerged as a top contender to fill that role.
From Anfield to Africa? Achterberg brings pedigree
Achterberg spent 15 years at Liverpool FC, serving as the First Team Goalkeeper Coach and Head of Goalkeeping. During his time at Anfield, he worked under some of the Premier League’s most iconic managers: Rafa Benitez, Roy Hodgson, Kenny Dalglish, Brendan Rodgers, and for the past nine years—Jurgen Klopp.
His influence at Liverpool went far beyond the training ground.
Achterberg played a central role in signing and developing elite talents such as Simon Mignolet and Alisson Becker. He also groomed young stars like Caoimhin Kelleher and Danny Ward, several of whom helped generate more than £20 million in transfer revenue for the club.
His deep understanding of modern goalkeeping, tactical analysis, and talent development makes him a top-tier candidate for a club like Sundowns.
Natural fit for Sundowns’ high-performance culture
Sundowns have long embraced a collaborative coaching model, a system first introduced during Pitso Mosimane’s successful tenure. That philosophy remains intact today, as the club consistently invests in top-level coaching talent.
Bringing in someone like Achterberg would align perfectly with that strategy.
“He is a high-profile coach who can add value at Sundowns. His handlers in Europe are working closely with their South African contacts and will see if they can make it possible,” the source said.
Local options on the table but Sundowns want the best
While the club is also evaluating local coaches such as former AmaZulu goalkeeper coach Aubrey Vilakazi, the potential to sign someone of Achterberg’s international calibre has clearly caught their attention.
If Sundowns can close this deal, it would be a major coup, securing a UEFA elite-level coach with proven success at one of Europe’s biggest clubs.
With the CAF Champions League and FIFA Club World Cup campaigns heating up, Sundowns know the importance of fine margins. A coach like Achterberg could provide the edge they need to compete at the highest level.
Whether or not this move materializes, the intent is clear. Sundowns are not settling, they’re building a team capable of conquering Africa and challenging the world.
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