Forget the scandal! Sundowns star handed a lifeline after dressing room controversy

From controversy and isolation to a possible career revival! Mamelodi Sundowns winger Monnapule Saleng has received a powerful message of encouragement after a turbulent period that threatened to derail his future at the South African giants. Former footballer Lebohang Mokoena believes the troubled star still has an opportunity to turn everything around.

Details: Speaking to Soccer Laduma, former Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Lebohang Mokoena expressed confidence that Monnapule Saleng can make a fresh start following his disciplinary problems at the club. Mokoena believes the winger should leave the difficult events of recent months behind him and focus on writing a new chapter in his career. His comments were published as part of a special feature in Soccer Laduma edition 1496. The former player stressed that Saleng had been going through a period of personal and professional adjustment and should now concentrate on rediscovering his best form.

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Saleng's situation has become one of the most discussed stories surrounding Mamelodi Sundowns this season. The winger arrived at the club with considerable expectations after previously establishing himself as an exciting attacking player at Orlando Pirates. His pace, creativity and ability to produce decisive moments made him an attractive addition to an already talented squad. However, his first months at Sundowns did not unfold as supporters had expected, with fitness concerns and disciplinary problems disrupting his progress.

The controversy became particularly serious when head coach Miguel Cardoso publicly explained why Saleng had been separated from the first team. The Portuguese manager claimed that the player had repeatedly failed to respect the rules and standards established within the dressing room. Cardoso also referred to occasions when Saleng did not report for scheduled team activities. As a consequence, the winger was instructed to train separately while the club considered how to address the situation.

Yet the latest developments suggest that the relationship between the player and the club may be improving. Earlier in October, Saleng returned to training with the senior squad. Cardoso subsequently confirmed that the club's management, sporting director, coaching staff and players had agreed to give the winger another opportunity. The coach also praised Saleng's commitment during individual training sessions and acknowledged that his behaviour had become more consistent since rejoining the group.

Mokoena now believes this opportunity could mark an important turning point. Rather than allowing the controversy to define the rest of his career, Saleng has been encouraged to concentrate on what lies ahead. The former Sundowns midfielder considers it essential for the attacker to regain confidence and avoid becoming distracted by past disagreements. His assessment suggests that the player's next chapter should be judged by his response on the training ground and his performances when selected.

However, a return to the squad does not automatically guarantee regular appearances. Sundowns possess considerable attacking depth and maintain demanding professional standards. Saleng will need to demonstrate consistency, discipline and tactical understanding if he wants to become an important part of Cardoso's plans. Supporters will also be watching closely to see whether the winger can reproduce the performances that previously made him one of the most recognisable attacking players in South African football.

It's worth noting that Saleng joined Mamelodi Sundowns in early 2026 following spells with Orlando Pirates and Orbit College. He made his Sundowns debut against Sekhukhune United in March, contributing to a goal in a 3:1 victory. After his subsequent disciplinary problems, the winger returned to first team training in October. Cardoso has acknowledged his recent improvement, while Mokoena believes the 28 year old can use the opportunity to rebuild his career.

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