Latest news with #ThabangSibanyoni
IOL News
07-07-2025
- Sport
- IOL News
Sundowns bid farewell to five players in post-club World Cup reshuffle
Mamelodi Sundowns have officially confirmed the departure of five players as part of their off-season squad reshuffle, following their early exit at the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States. The reigning Betway Premiership champions announced on Monday that Sanele Tshabalala, Thabang Sibanyoni, Sifiso Ngobeni, Lucas Suarez, and Sipho Mbule have all left the club, as preparations intensify for the 2025/26 season. Goalkeeper Sanele Tshabalala, who joined Sundowns in 2020, leaves without having made a senior appearance. The 25-year-old goalkeeper was part of several title-winning squads but failed to crack the first-team pecking order and will now look for opportunities to revive his career elsewhere. Striker Thabang Sibanyoni, a product of the club's development system, exits after spending much of his time out on loan. Despite showing promise during his loan spells, he could not break into a high-powered Sundowns attack.
The South African
07-07-2025
- Sport
- The South African
Mamelodi Sundowns axe five more stars as Pirates get midfielder
Mamelodi Sundowns have ramped up their squad overhaul by confirming the exits of five additional players, following the departures of Rivaldo Coetzee and Lebohang Maboe. As the Tshwane giants streamline their squad ahead of the new season, the club has parted ways with Sanele Tshabalala, Thabang Sibanyoni, Sifiso Ngobeni, Lucas Suarez, and Sipho Mbule. Sipho Mbule has already secured a fresh start with Soweto giants Orlando Pirates, long before Sundowns made their official announcement. The midfielder's move to Mayfair marks a new chapter after a somewhat turbulent stint at Chloorkop. Thabang Sibanyoni and Sifiso Ngobeni, who spent last season out on loan, will not be returning to Sundowns. The club opted not to reintegrate them into the squad, as it continues to offload players who no longer fit its long-term vision. Ngobeni has attracted interest from Richards Bay FC, who are on the hunt for a left-back following Nkosikhona Ndaba's move to Orlando Pirates. Aged 27, Ngobeni found game time hard to come by at AmaZulu but could see more minutes at Richards Bay, where he's being closely monitored. Lucas Suarez, who joined on loan in January, failed to establish himself in the heart of Sundowns' defence. Despite having an option to buy, the club decided not to make the deal permanent. Suarez's brief spell at the club ends without him making a significant impression. Lebohang Maboe's departure has sparked a scramble for his signature. Durban City, Kaizer Chiefs, Sekhukhune United and Orlando Pirates are all reportedly vying for the 30-year-old's services. Maboe impressed during his loan at SuperSport United, playing a crucial role in helping the club avoid relegation. However, with SuperSport selling their PSL status, he won't be staying. 'Durban City, coached by Gavin Hunt, could offer a sentimental return,' an insider noted. Chiefs, on the other hand, are eyeing him as a potential replacement for Yusuf Maart. Maboe leaves Sundowns as one of the most decorated players of his era, having amassed 183 appearances, 20 goals, 23 assists, and nine trophies during his time at the club. Where will the Mamelodi Sundowns stars land? 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.
