Mamelodi Sundowns have given star attacker Cassius Mailula the green light to join a North American side.
On Monday evening, the Tshwane giants put on a statement titled: “Mamelodi Sundowns give green light to Mailula’s move to North America.”
The club did not specify which team would acquire the services of Cassius Maiula, but they stated that an announcement would be made.
SUNDOWNS STATEMENT
“Mamelodi Sundowns has been in discussions with a North American football club that expressed interest in acquiring the services of Cassius Mailula,” said the club.
“Sundowns is proud of Cassius Mailula who joined the Mamelodi Sundowns Academy as a 13-year-old and was developed and nurtured by the Sundowns coaches.
“Mamelodi Sundowns will make further announcements concerning Cassius Mailula in due course.”
Indications are that, Sundowns are currently in talks with Major League Soccer side Toronto FC over the transfer of Mailula, who won’t not be part of Downs’ pre-season trip to the Netherlands.
It has been reported that MSL side, Toronto are eager to sign Cassius Mailula and have tabled an improved offer to Sundowns after their several bids were turned down.
Njabulo Blom and Bongokuhle Hlongwane are the two SA players currently playing in the MLS and the duo is doing well. Blom is bossing the midfield at St. Louis City SC, while Hlongwane is scoring goals for fun at Minnesota United. Tsiki Ntsabeleng, a former teammate of Blom at Kaizer Chiefs is yet to make his mark at at FC Dallas.
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MAILULA’S IMPACT AT SUNDOWNS LAST SEASON
The hugely promising 22-year-old had a breakthrough season to remember. Cassius Mailula grabbed his opportunity with both hands and ran with it in a star-studded Sundowns team.
In the 2022/23 campaign, he featured in over 30 games in all competitions, scoring 15 goals and providing four assists.
His incredible form was vital in Sundowns defending their DStv Premiership title, which was Mailula’s first taste of silverware in SA’s topflight. He won the PSL young Player of the Season award.
Mailula’s move abroad is still uncertain.