Mamelodi Sundowns Coach Miguel Cardoso Confirms Monnapule Saleng Remains Injured and Delays Premier Soccer League Debut in South Africa

It has been over three months since fans of the Mamelodi Sundowns got their first glimpse of Monnapule Saleng raising the famous yellow jersey after signing from Orlando Pirates on 9 January.

Despite the fanfare, the Bloemhof-born forward has yet to make his official debut, sidelined by a persistent thigh and quadriceps strain that has frustrated both supporters and coaching staff alike.

Injury Update from Coach Miguel Cardoso

Speaking after Sundowns’ 1-0 win over AmaZulu FC at Moses Mabhida Stadium, Portuguese coach Miguel Cardoso offered the latest on Saleng’s fitness.

He confirmed that the 27-year-old remains injured but refrained from providing a specific return date. “Saleng is still injured.

It’s a situation that is obviously progressing.

Let’s see when he can help the team,” Cardoso told reporters.

Medical experts at Claveland Clinic suggest that Saleng’s injury may be a Grade 3 strain, which could take several weeks to months to fully recover.

Recovery for such a strain involves careful rehabilitation, pain management, and gradual restoration of muscle strength before returning to the pitch.

Impact on the Team

Saleng’s absence comes at a critical time as Sundowns navigate both league and continental competitions.

Cardoso also confirmed that Brazilian striker Arthur Sales has joined the treatment room following the CAF Champions League win over MC Alger.

The coach highlighted the need for both players’ unique skill sets to energize the team and enhance attacking options.

Looking Ahead

While fans eagerly await Saleng’s first appearance in the yellow jersey, Sundowns are turning their attention to the next league fixture.

The reigning champions will host Sekhukhune United at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Sunday, with kickoff scheduled for 15:30.

What’s Next?

The coaching staff will continue to monitor Saleng’s rehabilitation, balancing urgency with caution to avoid re-injury.

Fans can expect periodic fitness updates, but his full return is likely dependent on achieving complete muscle recovery.

Meanwhile, Sundowns will rely on available forwards to maintain momentum in both domestic and continental competitions.

Summary

Monnapule Saleng’s much-anticipated debut for Mamelodi Sundowns remains on hold due to a serious thigh/quad strain.

Coach Miguel Cardoso confirmed the player’s ongoing injury, while medical experts indicate a recovery period ranging from several weeks to months.

The team continues to adapt, with Arthur Sales also sidelined, as they prepare for upcoming matches.

Supporters and the club await Saleng’s full recovery, hopeful that the former Orlando Pirates star will soon bring his dynamic attacking talent to the pitch.