- Miguel Cardoso dismisses rumours about his future after Sundowns exit MTN8 and Carling Knockout competitions this season early stages.
- Sundowns beat Orbit College at Loftus and now turn focus to the Confederation of African Football Champions League match on Friday.
Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso says talk about his future is nothing more than noise meant to unsettle the team.
Speculation has grown after Sundowns’ uneven season. They crashed out of the MTN Eight and the Carling Knockout and are locked in a tight Betway Premiership title race.
This has started rumours that the club could bring back former coach Pitso Mosimane.
Cardoso says he is not bothered.
“These people want to hurt Sundowns,” Cardoso told reporters after Sundowns beat Orbit College 2 to 0 at Loftus on Monday. He said the aim is to hurt coaches, players and those running the club.
“They will stay frustrated. We are strong, very strong,” he said.
Cardoso also played down suggestions that his job defines him.
“My life depends more on music, nature and cycling than on football,” he said. He added that he enjoys being at the club and will stay for as long as Sundowns want him there.
Until then, he said, his focus remains on the work in front of him.
The Portuguese coach urged supporters not to be distracted by rumours. He said the team remains united and focused on its targets for the season.
Sundowns now turn their attention to continental football.
They face Al Hilal of Sudan at home on Friday in the Confederation of African Football Champions League. The match gives Sundowns a chance to reset after domestic setbacks and push forward in Africa.
With pressure building from all sides, Cardoso says the message inside the camp remains simple. Block out the noise and keep going.
Pictured above: Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso.
Image source: @Masandawana
