Sundowns Seek Early Transfer Approval Ahead of Club World Cup

Mamelodi Sundowns have officially submitted a request to the Premier Soccer League (PSL) and the South African Football Association (SAFA) to approve early registration of new signings ahead of their historic participation in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.

The move, which could shift the usual structure of South African football’s transfer protocols, underscores the club’s determination to compete on equal footing with global giants and avoid any late-minute squad complications.

With the expanded Club World Cup set to take place in the United States in June 2025, Sundowns have begun fine-tuning preparations months in advance.

As the only South African team to qualify for the global tournament, the Brazilians are determined to make a serious statement on the world stage.

However, one major obstacle remains: the standard local registration window might not open early enough to allow new signings to be eligible for the competition.

This prompted the club to urgently request an exceptional clearance to register incoming players outside the traditional window.

According to internal sources at Chloorkop, the club has already identified several targets across Africa and South America who are expected to be pivotal in boosting their squad depth and tactical diversity.

While names have not been officially released, insiders hint at a versatile attacking midfielder from Brazil, a defensive rock from Morocco, and one rising star from Ghana.

These players are reportedly already in negotiations with Sundowns, and the club is hoping to conclude deals swiftly — provided they can secure approval for early registration.

Sundowns’ management argues that waiting for the South African transfer window to open in mid-July would jeopardize their ability to field their strongest squad at the Club World Cup.

Since FIFA regulations allow clubs to register up to 23 players specifically for the tournament, but also leave it up to the domestic leagues to validate new player eligibility, Sundowns are essentially at the mercy of local authorities.

This is why they’ve taken the proactive step of petitioning SAFA and the PSL directly, hoping to convince the governing bodies that this exceptional case warrants exceptional measures.

Club chairman Tlhopie Motsepe is said to be personally involved in the discussions, underscoring how seriously the club is treating this situation.

In a recent internal meeting, Motsepe reportedly told the technical team and administrative staff that “this is not just about Mamelodi Sundowns — this is about representing South African football on the biggest stage.

We owe it to the country to prepare in the best possible way.

While some within the PSL leadership have expressed openness to the idea, others are more cautious.

Granting Sundowns early registration could create a precedent that other clubs may later seek to exploit.

For instance, what would happen if Kaizer Chiefs or Orlando Pirates request similar exceptions during continental competitions like the CAF Champions League or Confederation Cup? The concern lies in maintaining regulatory consistency while also supporting a club with a legitimate international opportunity.

SAFA, for its part, appears to be more supportive.

Recognizing the rare and prestigious nature of the Club World Cup, SAFA officials believe that assisting Sundowns could boost the international image of South African football.

They have reportedly advised PSL leadership to consider the global exposure benefits and the reputational gain for the local league if Sundowns perform well.

Fans of the club have been vocal online, with hashtags like #BackTheBrazilians and #SundownsInUSA trending on South African social media platforms.

Many supporters argue that the league should rally behind Sundowns, just as European leagues have done in the past for their representatives at FIFA tournaments.

Comparisons have been drawn to how Real Madrid and Chelsea were given scheduling accommodations when they played in the Club World Cup, including early registration approvals and fixture rescheduling.

However, not everyone is thrilled with the developments.

Rival fanbases and some club officials from other PSL teams have voiced concerns about fairness.

“Rules are rules,” said one anonymous PSL club director.

“You can’t just bend them because one team has international ambitions.

What about the integrity of the league system?” This perspective highlights the tension between club success and domestic equity — a challenge not unique to South Africa but present in most footballing nations with competitive league structures.

Meanwhile, Sundowns are not letting the administrative uncertainty slow down their preparations.

Head coach Rulani Mokwena has been hard at work building tactical plans for various possible opponents they could face at the Club World Cup.

With potential clashes against teams like Manchester City, Real Madrid, or Palmeiras on the horizon, the coaching team is emphasizing squad versatility and adaptability.

New signings would play a critical role in diversifying their tactical options.

In addition to seeking early signings, Sundowns are also arranging an intensive pre-tournament camp in the United States.

This would allow players to acclimate to the conditions and reduce travel fatigue, giving them the best possible chance to compete against the best clubs in the world.

Talks are ongoing with facilities in Florida and Texas, with matches against MLS sides like LAFC and Inter Miami being explored as warm-up fixtures.

As the countdown to the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup continues, Mamelodi Sundowns stand at a pivotal moment.

Their ambition to compete with the world’s elite is matched only by the complexity of navigating domestic bureaucracy.

Whether or not SAFA and the PSL grant them early transfer approval could be a deciding factor in how far they go at the tournament.

What is clear is that the entire South African football community will be watching.

For some, this is about rules.

For others, it’s about opportunity.

For Sundowns, it’s about history — and they’re not about to let red tape stop them from making it.