Khuliso Mudau's six-month injury absence has cast doubt over Mamelodi Sundowns' defensive depth, with former star Manqoba Ngwenya insisting the club must act swiftly to address the gap. The 28-year-old right-back's prolonged recovery from a severe injury has left the technical team scrambling to find a suitable replacement, as Sundowns prepare for a grueling campaign across the Betway Premiership, CAF Champions League, and Confederation Cup. Ngwenya, a former Sundowns legend, emphasized that Mudau's unique blend of pace, confidence, and goal-creating ability is nearly impossible to replicate with current squad options.
Ngwenya's comments underscore the urgency for a transfer deadline-day move, noting that Sundowns were already short on right-back options before Mudau's injury. 'Finding a defender like him is going to be difficult for Sund, because he is one of the best in the world,' Ngwenya told KickOff. 'He’s always confident challenging any player when it comes to pace, confident in his style of play, and he creates goals.' The former Bafana stalwart's absence has forced the club to rely on Thapelo Morena, Keegan Johannes, and Zuko Mdunyelwa, but fans remain skeptical about their ability to match Mudau's impact.
With the transfer window approaching, rumors of potential replacements have intensified. Polokwane City's Thabang Matuludi is linked with a move to Gauteng, with both Sundowns and Orlando Pirates monitoring his situation. However, Ngwenya's warnings highlight a broader concern: without immediate reinforcements, the squad's depth may not sustain a title challenge. The club's hierarchy now faces a daunting task to secure a right-back capable of bridging the gap left by Mudau's absence.
