Wayne Arendse, a former defender for Mamelodi Sundowns, has shared what coach Manqoba Mngqithi has done well with the team so far this season.
Mngqithi stepped back into the spotlight as head coach of Sundowns this season following Rulani Mokwena’s departure. He has been working in tandem with senior coach Steve Komphela and assistant coach Romain Folz to lead the Tshwane giants.
At the start of the 2025 season, Sundowns had a lacklustre performance, which was evident in their MTN8 semi-final exit against Stellenbosch FC. However, they have since found their rhythm and currently hold the second spot in the DStv Premiership, having collected 18 points from seven matches.
In addition, Sundowns have secured a place in the final of the Carling Knockout Cup, where they will face Betway Premiership newcomers Magesi FC on Saturday, November 23rd, at the Toyota Stadium in the Free State.
MANQOBA MNGQITHI HARNESSING YOUNG TALENT AT SUNDOWNS
Arendse commends Mngqithi for his astute decision to integrate young talent into the team. This season, Mngqithi has afforded increased playing time to promising youngsters such as Asekho Tiwani, Malibongwe Khoza, and Kutlwano Letlhaku.
Letlhaku has played eight matches, scored three goals and provided an assist. As for Khoza and Tiwani, they have made six appearances each and helped the team to keep three clean sheets.
“I think [playing youngsters] that’s one thing Manqoba has got right in the Sundowns team, getting more youngsters to play,” Arendse told FARPost. “I know in the past there have been youngsters that have been given opportunities to play. But now there are so many.
“They are performing well because they have experienced and great examples [players] around them. The team is not dependent on the youngsters, so they don’t have pressure to say, ‘It’s all on me’.
“Look at Khoza, Tiwani and Kutlwano; they are doing well; credit to Manqoba and the technical team for making sure the boys adapt well. It’s not easy to play at any team if you’re a youngster.”
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