Mamelodi Sundowns fans have reason to celebrate as Zimbabwean defender Divine Lunga is now eligible to play as a South African, freeing up a valuable foreign player slot in the squad.
Lunga’s agent, Mike Makaab, believes this development could unlock the player’s full potential and offer the Brazilians exciting new tactical options.
“Divine is incredibly talented and offers the club a lot of versatility as a left-sided player,” Makaab said. “He can play left-back, left-center defense, and even push forward offensively. Now that he’s eligible as a local player, it will be fascinating to see how coach Rhulani Mokwena decides to utilize him.”
Makaab dismissed any speculation about a potential loan move for Lunga. “He will definitely stay at Sundowns. We’re excited about his future with the club, and I believe he can become a key player for them.”
Lunga, 28, joined Sundowns in 2021 but spent last season on loan at Golden Arrows, where he impressed with his consistent performances. He can now compete for a starting spot alongside Aubrey Modiba and Terrence Mashego on the left side of Sundowns’ defence, adding depth and tactical flexibility to the team.
His two main competitors at left back are going to AFCON with Bafana Bafana. Modiba has been a regular in recent national team fixtures. Mashego also looks set to get the nod as Bafana mentor Hugo Broos may want to tighten at the back.
Moroccan defender Abdelmounaim Boutouil has also been used as a left back this season, further complicating Lunga’s case.
OTHER SOCCER NEWS:Dilemma for Mamelodi Sundowns’ Divine Lunga
GOLDEN ARROWS OFFENSIVES CAPABILITIES
 However, the former Golden Arrows star’s offensive capabilities, highlighted by Makaab, could also see him deployed further up the field or even pushing forward as a wing-back. This adaptability and versatility are precisely what Lunga’s eligibility brings to the Sundowns table.
With the season already underway, it remains to be seen how soon Lunga will be integrated into the starting lineup. However, his South African eligibility has undoubtedly raised excitement among Sundowns fans and coach Mokwena, who now have a new piece to fit into their tactical puzzle.
He will be relieved by the development as he looks to cement his place in the Zimbabwe national team squad.