Tiyani Mabunda conundrum for Mamelodi Sundowns

Phakaaathi previously reported that Tiyani Mabunda might be given a behind-the-scenes role at Mamelodi Sundowns as a club ambassador, but in the negotiations, it seems Mabunda is insisting on playing for a few more years before hanging up his boots.

ALSO READ: Mngqithi explains why Sundowns could not win against Chippa

But Sundowns are not sure whether they’d still be interested in giving him that role after retiring.

“Mabunda is talking to a few clubs including Sundowns. He is no longer contracted at the club (Sundowns) as we all know, and he wants to continue playing but still come back to the club when he retires. Sundowns want him to take up the (ambassador) role immediately and that is where negotiations are understood to be stuck,” said a source.

Sundowns and Mabunda put an end to his eight-year stay at Chloorkop where he won five league titles, the Nedbank Cup and Telkom Knockouts twice, while he was the engine room at the heart of Sundowns’ midfield alongside captain Hlompho Kekana, when they won the 2016 Caf Champions League paired with the Super Cup the following year.

In a tribute video posted by Sundowns on Twitter, Mabunda said while he is leaving Chloorkop, he could come back as a coach one day.

Mabunda went on to describe his journey at Sundowns as a unique one, as he is one of the few players who were sent out on loan before cracking the star-studded Sundowns line-up.   

“My story is one the most unique stories to be told because when I came to this club, nobody really knew about me. I have been through any kind of up and down that you could ever think a player of Mamelodi Sundowns can go through,” said Mabunda.