Miguel Cardoso Confirms Monnapule Saleng Is Training Separately from Mamelodi Sundowns

Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has publicly addressed the situation surrounding Monnapule Saleng, confirming that the winger is currently training away from the club's first-team squad. Speaking about the matter, Cardoso explained that the decision was not made lightly but followed what he described as repeated violations of the club's rules and dressing-room values. According to the coach, Saleng was selected for important team activities on multiple occasions but failed to honour those commitments. Cardoso revealed that the player was included in the squad for a CAF Champions League fixture but did not report as expected. He also stated that Saleng was scheduled to join the team for a training camp but did not attend. The Portuguese coach stressed that maintaining discipline and unity within the squad is essential for a club competing for major honours every season. Cardoso explained that every player is expected to uphold the standards and values established by the club, regardless of reputation or ability. He suggested that making exceptions for individuals could undermine the stability and culture that have contributed to Sundowns' sustained success both domestically and on the African continent. The coach added that the club had continued to support Saleng despite previous setbacks, but ultimately decided that separating him from the first-team environment was necessary for the benefit of the group. His comments highlight the difficult balance that top clubs often face between supporting talented players and enforcing discipline. While footballing ability is highly valued, professionalism, commitment and respect for team standards remain fundamental requirements at elite level. For Mamelodi Sundowns, maintaining harmony within the dressing room is especially important as the club competes across multiple competitions, including the Betway Premiership, domestic cup tournaments and continental football. Any disruption within the squad can affect preparations and overall performance. Saleng remains one of South Africa's most gifted attacking players, and many supporters will hope that the current situation can eventually be resolved positively. His pace, creativity and ability to produce decisive moments have earned him recognition throughout South African football. However, Cardoso's remarks make it clear that a return to the first-team environment will depend on meeting the expectations and standards set by the club. Neither the coach nor the club indicated how long the separation will continue, leaving Saleng's immediate future uncertain. Further discussions between the player and the club are likely to determine the next steps. For now, Sundowns remain focused on their objectives for the season, while the Saleng situation continues to attract significant attention from supporters and the wider football community. Whether the matter is resolved through reconciliation or another outcome remains to be seen, but Cardoso's message was clear: discipline, accountability and commitment to the team come before any individual