Latest news with #MatiasEsquivel
IOL News
4 days ago
- Sport
- IOL News
Mamelodi Sundowns face turmoil before cup semi-final with Orlando Pirates
Mamelodi Sundowns face off-field turmoil and a challenging start to the season as they prepare for the MTN8 semi-final against Orlando Pirates, with midfielder Matias Esquivel's departure adding to the drama. Seen here: Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso. Picture: Itumeleng English/Independent Media It's not been a perfect start to the new season for reigning Betway Premiership champions Mamelodi Sundowns, and now it has emerged that there are off-field issues with the club. It's not a unique situation for a football club at the start of a new season to have players leaving the club, but the manner in which midfielder Matias Esquivel's time with the side was spent is concerning. Esquivel was signed by Sundowns last year under former coach Rulani Mokwena, but did not feature much after Miguel Cardoso took the reins. It's natural when a new coach takes over for certain players not to fit well into the new style, but the way Esquivel plays was not the issue.
The South African
30-07-2025
- Business
- The South African
Mamelodi Sundowns set to offload expensive midfield star
Mamelodi Sundowns have ramped up efforts to trim their bloated squad as preparations intensify ahead of the new Premiership season. With a string of departures already confirmed, a source now suggests the club is finalising decisions on players whose futures remain uncertain. Among those under scrutiny is Argentine midfielder Matias Esquivel, who trained with the squad during pre-season. The source revealed that the 26-year-old may not feature in the Brazilians' plans for the campaign ahead. While Sundowns have already parted ways with the likes of Sipho Mbule, Rivaldo Coetzee, and Lebohang Maboe, Esquivel's situation presents a financial complication. 'He is believed to have been on the list of the players to be released but due to the financial logistics involved, then it is believed that it will cost the club a lot, and that's why they are working on loaning him out again,' a source explained. 'They are working on downsizing, and he is believed to be one of the players that was supposed to leave.' The midfielder's contract reportedly runs until June 2027, making a permanent release financially impractical. As a result, the club is actively pursuing loan options to reduce wage obligations without taking a direct financial hit. The most likely outcome appears to be a return to Esquivel's former side Talleres Cordoba, although multiple destinations remain on the table. 'That's the possibility right now. Yes, they are looking at other options but going back to Talleres Cordoba is a possibility because they already know him,' the source added. 'But the club is believed to be looking at different options to loan him out as part of the squad downsizing this season.' Sundowns' aggressive approach to cutting their squad signals a major tactical shift. That's likely aimed at increasing squad efficiency and freeing up space for new arrivals. Esquivel's looming exit underlines the financial chess game taking place behind the scenes. As the club balances competitiveness with sustainability. Will Matias Esquivel find a new home before the window closes. Or could Mamelodi Sundowns be stuck with an expensive benchwarmer? Let us know by leaving a comment below or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X, and Bluesky for the latest news.
