Cardoso delves into his philosophical beliefs: Is this a sign of a resurgence for Rulani Downs?
Mamelodi Sundowns has embraced their newly appointed coach, Miguel Cardoso, who has swiftly taken the opportunity to present his detailed tactical and mental philosophies aimed for adoption at the club.
The Brazilians announced notable adjustments within the club’s coaching structure. Chairman Thlopie Motsepe and Sporting Director Flemming Burg officially confirmed the termination of Manqoba Mngithi while simultaneously introducing Cardoso as his successor.
Joined by the Portuguese coach, the two Downs executives engaged in discussions with the media at Chloorkop.
Cardoso, who has significant experience in African football, steps in for Mngqithi following a 10-month stint at Moroccan club Esperance De Tunis, which played a role in Downs’s exit in the previous season’s CAF Champions League semi-final.
Reflecting on his knowledge of Sundowns, the coach stated, “Of course, I was already acquainted with the team. We had to study it thoroughly last year in preparation for the two semi-final matches in the Champions League. It was only through that detailed analysis that we were able to address the challenges we encountered, which is part of a coach’s duty—to stay well-informed about the top teams in Africa.”
The former Celta Vigo manager indicated that executing his coaching philosophy would begin with evaluating the players at his disposal—a process he has already initiated while sharing his first impressions.
“We had to conduct a thorough analysis of the team and the players, and it’s clear that the players we possess are technically proficient and align with the style of a coach looking to take control of matches. Having skilled players is essential,” Cardoso emphasized.
Regarding playing style, Cardoso shared thoughts that may resonate positively with some Masandawana supporters, placing great importance on deliberate ball movement—a possible reference to former coach Rulani Mokwena’s strategies.
“That is my objective. I aspire to have a team that can dominate games, and to achieve this, we must be robust in all four phases of play. We must grasp how to use the ball effectively, but fundamentally, one must possess the ball to maneuver not just the ball but also the opponent to create the ideal spaces for launching an attack,” the 52-year-old articulated.
Furthermore, he highlighted the significance of teamwork to realize his aspirations on the field, emphasizing that no individual will take precedence over the collective under his guidance.
“We must excel in our defensive recovery and in our capability to reorganize. This calls for unity and commitment because under my management, no player will be more important than the team—believe me, no one,” the new Downs coach asserted.
The Pretoria club embarks on this new chapter brimming with optimism after parting ways with a coach who managed only 19 games across all competitions, achieving 13 victories, suffering four losses, and recording two draws. If past performance serves as any indicator, the new head coach has little margin for error.