Antonio Van Wyk speaks on what made him leave Europe to join Mamelodi Sundowns

Antonio Van Wyk has spoken about what made him leave a European club for South Africa's Mamelodi Sundowns.

Van Wyk joined Sundowns from Austria's SV Ried in the off-season which was a surprise move given that many local players dream of a move abroad.

But Van Wyk took the opposite direction.

“I would say the history of the club, trophies as well. It’s guaranteed that this team will win a trophy or two every season,” Van Wyk said during the interview with Sundowns Pitchside Podcast.

Obviously that’s a big aspect, as a player you obviously wanna be a decorated player in terms of trophies and numbers as well.

“So, I thought to help my game, I’m going to have to take the next step. And if it’s not in Europe, it should be the African champions.”

On his time in Europe, Van Wyk said he learnt a lot football wise while abroad.

“I’d say different culture, we have our own culture here in South Africa,” he added

“There, it’s way different. Also being on the field communicating with players, it’s way different.

“That aspect and also the physicality of where I was, was quite strenuous on the body.”