Mamelodi Sundowns, one of South Africa’s most successful and celebrated football clubs, is currently facing a storm of discontent from its passionate fanbase.

The club’s poor start to the 2025/26 season has ignited widespread calls for change, with many supporters urging the management to bring back former coach Rulani Mokwena.

This demand comes in the wake of a disappointing elimination from the MTN8 semi-finals by fierce rivals Orlando Pirates, a result that has left fans frustrated and anxious about the direction of the club.

This article examines the context behind the calls for Mokwena’s return, the current challenges facing Sundowns under coach Miguel Cardoso, and the broader implications for the club’s future.

Mamelodi Sundowns, affectionately known as Masandawana, have long been a powerhouse in South African football.

The club’s history is adorned with numerous trophies, including multiple Betway Premiership titles and continental honors.

Their dominance has been built on strong leadership, tactical innovation, and a winning culture that has made them a benchmark for success in the Premier Soccer League (PSL).

However, recent events have shaken this foundation, leading to growing unrest among supporters.

The 2025/26 season began with high expectations for Sundowns, but those hopes have quickly been dampened.

The club’s exit from the MTN8 competition at the hands of Orlando Pirates was a significant blow.

The semi-final defeat was not just a lost opportunity for silverware but also a symbolic moment that exposed vulnerabilities in the team’s performance and strategy.

The reaction from fans was immediate and intense, culminating in scenes of anger where supporters surrounded the team’s bus in Atteridgeville, expressing their dissatisfaction and demanding accountability.

Miguel Cardoso, who took over as head coach at the end of 2024, has found himself under intense scrutiny.

Cardoso’s tenure began with promise, having secured the Betway Premiership title during his first season.

However, subsequent setbacks have troubled his reign.

The team lost the Nedbank Cup semi-final and suffered an early exit from the Club World Cup, raising questions about the squad’s consistency and ability to compete on multiple fronts.

These results have fueled speculation about Cardoso’s future and whether he is the right person to lead Sundowns forward.

In contrast to Cardoso’s struggles, many fans fondly remember the era under Rulani Mokwena, who served as coach before leaving the club in July of the previous year.

Mokwena, aged 38, was seen as a tactical mastermind who built a formidable team that gave opponents significant challenges.

His approach combined disciplined defense with creative attacking play, earning him respect from players, analysts, and supporters alike.

Since his departure, Mokwena has moved to North Africa, but his legacy at Sundowns remains influential.

The dissatisfaction with the current coaching situation has manifested in vocal calls from fans on social media and other platforms, urging the club to reconsider and bring Mokwena back.

Supporters argue that firing Mokwena was a mistake that has negatively impacted the team’s performance and morale.

Many believe that under his guidance, Sundowns played more cohesive and effective football, which is now lacking.

Tweets and posts from fans highlight the contrast between the two coaches, with some lamenting the loss of a “monster of a team” that Mokwena built.

One fan, @MarhubaneN, articulated this sentiment by recalling how rival fans celebrated Sundowns’ decision to let go of Mokwena, suggesting that the club was “shooting itself in the foot.

” Another supporter, @Mlu___N2, emphasized Mokwena’s impact, stating that he “built a monster of a team” that consistently troubled opponents.

These voices reflect a broader feeling among the fanbase that the club’s current trajectory is not aligned with its historical standards of excellence.

The debate over whether Sundowns should recall Mokwena is complex and touches on several key issues.

Firstly, there is the question of stability and continuity.

Football clubs often benefit from consistent leadership and a clear vision.

Mokwena’s tenure provided a sense of direction and identity that many feel has been lost.

Reinstating him could restore familiarity and confidence within the squad, potentially reversing the current slump.

Secondly, the tactical and motivational aspects are critical.

Mokwena’s style of play and man-management skills were praised for fostering a competitive and united team.

Fans believe that his return could reinvigorate the players and bring back the winning mentality that Sundowns are known for.

The contrast with Cardoso’s results has heightened these expectations, as supporters seek a coach who can deliver both results and attractive football.

However, the decision to bring back a former coach is not without challenges.

Mokwena’s current commitments in North Africa and his career ambitions may complicate any potential return.

Additionally, the club’s management must weigh the risks of disrupting the current coaching setup against the potential benefits.

Changing coaches mid-season or shortly after a new appointment can lead to instability and uncertainty, which might further affect the team’s performance.

Moreover, it is essential to consider the broader context of Sundowns’ recent struggles.

The club’s issues may not be solely attributable to coaching.

Factors such as player form, injuries, squad depth, and off-field dynamics also play significant roles.

Addressing these challenges requires a holistic approach that goes beyond the coaching staff.

The management, players, and support staff must work collaboratively to identify and resolve underlying problems.

The pressure on Miguel Cardoso is palpable.

Just three weeks into the new season, he faces calls for his dismissal, a situation that can undermine a coach’s authority and effectiveness.

Navigating this pressure while trying to implement his vision is a delicate balancing act.

Cardoso’s ability to respond positively to criticism and rally the team will be crucial in determining his tenure’s longevity.

For the club’s supporters, the stakes are high.

Mamelodi Sundowns are not just a football team; they are a symbol of pride, ambition, and excellence in South African sports.

The fans’ passionate response to recent setbacks reflects their deep emotional investment and desire for the club to succeed.

Their calls for Mokwena’s return underscore a yearning for stability, success, and a return to the style of play that once brought them glory.

This situation also highlights the broader challenges faced by South African football clubs in maintaining competitive standards amid changing dynamics.

Coaching changes, player transfers, and evolving tactical trends require clubs to be adaptable and forward-thinking.

Sundowns’ experience serves as a case study in the complexities of managing a top-tier football club in a demanding environment.

Looking ahead, the club’s leadership faces critical decisions.

Whether to stand by Miguel Cardoso and provide him with the support needed to turn the season around or to heed the fans’ calls and explore the possibility of bringing back Rulani Mokwena will shape Sundowns’ future trajectory.

Both options carry risks and potential rewards.

If Mokwena were to return, it would signal a recommitment to the principles and style that defined his tenure.

It could boost morale and re-establish a winning culture.

However, it would also require careful management to ensure a smooth transition and alignment with the club’s long-term goals.

Alternatively, backing Cardoso could demonstrate confidence in his abilities and vision.

Providing him with time and resources to address the team’s issues might yield positive results, reinforcing stability and continuity.

Success under Cardoso would validate the club’s decision to appoint him and build a foundation for sustained achievement.

In either scenario, communication with fans and transparency from the club’s management will be vital.

Engaging supporters, acknowledging their concerns, and outlining clear plans can help maintain trust and unity during challenging times.

The relationship between the club and its fanbase is a cornerstone of Sundowns’ identity, and nurturing this bond is essential.

The role of the players must also not be overlooked.

Ultimately, their performances on the pitch will determine the club’s fortunes.

Whether under Mokwena or Cardoso, the squad must demonstrate resilience, commitment, and adaptability.

Leadership from senior players and a collective team spirit will be key factors in overcoming adversity.

In conclusion, the calls from Mamelodi Sundowns fans to bring back Rulani Mokwena reflect a deep-seated desire for a return to stability, success, and a recognizable style of play.

The club’s current struggles under Miguel Cardoso have intensified scrutiny and sparked debate about the best path forward.

As Sundowns navigate this critical juncture, the decisions made by the club’s management, coaching staff, and players will have lasting implications.

Balancing the expectations of supporters with practical considerations is a complex task, but one that must be approached with clarity and resolve.

Whether Mokwena returns or Cardoso rises to the challenge, the ultimate goal remains the same: to restore Mamelodi Sundowns to their rightful place at the pinnacle of South African football.