Mamelodi Sundowns FC Duo Ruled Out for Foreseeable Future
Mamelodi Sundowns FC are facing a testing start to the new campaign following news that both Arthur Sales and Keanu Cupido have been ruled out for the foreseeable future. The duo, who were instrumental in the club's recent successes, including a deep run in the CAF Champions League competition, have been sidelined after undergoing necessary surgeries during the pre-season break.
Extent of the Surgery Explained
The technical staff has provided specific details regarding the nature of the injuries that have kept the pair out of recent training sessions. Sales, in particular, has dealt with multiple issues that required surgical intervention to resolve permanently. Cardoso elaborated on the situation, stating: "We also have Sales, unfortunately, like Keanu, will be a long-term situation," he said as per iDiski Tmes. "Arthur made a double surgery, shoulder and pubis, and then the shoulder; he had to be submitted because he had a big issue there."
'We Tried Conservative Treatment on Him'
For Cupido, the journey to recovery has been equally arduous after a gruelling schedule last season. The defender pushed through the pain barrier to represent the club on the biggest stage, but eventually, the medical department decided that a procedure was the only viable long-term solution. "Keanu, unfortunately, we tried conservative treatment on him; he played the Champions League final, and he was so important, but then he had to make a surgery, and that surgery will take a long time to recover from.
Patience Required for November Return
While fans may have hoped for a return in the early weeks of the season, Cardoso has suggested that the timeline is much further down the road. The Sundowns coach believes that a late-year return is a more realistic target for the rehabilitating pair. Cardoso remained firm in his stance that the health of the players must come first, despite the pressure to field his strongest starting eleven. "I think that we are being very optimistic when we speak that they are going to be back in the end of August; they will be back in the end of maybe November," the coach remarked. "So, let’s not really put pressure on their recovery; it’s a thing for not long, but medium term."
What Comes Next?
The club will take a cautious approach to the recovery process, ensuring that neither player is rushed back onto the pitch before they are physically prepared for the rigours of top-flight football. The team will continue to monitor the duo's progress and provide updates on their recovery. In the meantime, the focus will be on developing the squad and preparing for the upcoming matches.
Why It Matters for Mamelodi Sundowns FC
The injury blow to Sales and Cupido is a significant setback for the club, particularly given their importance to the team's recent successes. The duo's absence will be felt, and the team will need to adapt and find ways to compensate for their loss. However, the club remains optimistic that the duo will return to full fitness in due time and continue to contribute to the team's success.
What's Next for Mamelodi Sundowns FC?
The club will continue to work towards a successful season, despite the injury setbacks. The team will focus on developing the squad and preparing for the upcoming matches. The club remains committed to its goals and is confident that the duo will return to full fitness in due time.
