Mailula Eyes Sundowns Revival After European Stint; Mokoena Backs Return

Forward Cassius MailulaPlayer·Cassius Mailula is currently training with Mamelodi Sundowns during their pre-season camp in Austria, signaling a potential return to the club where he previously made a significant impact. This development follows a challenging eighteen-month period for the Bafana Bafana international, which saw his progress stall during stints in North America and Europe.

Mailula, 25, was recently released by Belgian club KV KortrijkTeam·KV Kortrijk and mutually terminated his contract with Major League Soccer side Toronto FC. Despite these setbacks, former Orlando PiratesTeam·Orlando Pirates star Lebohang Mokoena has publicly expressed confidence in Mailula's ability to rediscover his form and dominate the Premier Soccer League once again.

"Europe is Europe, he can go anytime," Mokoena stated, speaking to FARPost, dismissing the notion that Mailula's overseas struggles were a 'nightmare' and suggesting that a successful spell back at Sundowns could reopen doors to European football. Mokoena views the experience as a valuable learning curve, preparing Mailula for future opportunities.

Mamelodi Sundowns concluded the 2025/26 season in a strong position, finishing second in the South African Premiership and securing a spot in the CAF Champions League. Their most notable achievement was winning the CAF Champions League title in the 2025/26 season, defeating Moroccan side AS FAR Rabat in the final. This triumph earned them berths in both the 2029 FIFA Club World CupCompetition·FIFA Club World Cup and the FIFA Intercontinental Cup, highlighting the club's elevated stature on the continental stage.

The attacking lineup at Sundowns is highly competitive, featuring prolific players such as Brayan Leon, who scored double-digit goals last season, alongside Iqraam Rayners, Lebo Mothiba, and ArthurPlayer·Arthur Sales. However, Mokoena believes that the demanding fixture schedule under coach Miguel Cardoso will create ample opportunities for Mailula to prove himself, provided he is prepared to compete for a starting position.

"The demanding fixture schedule at Sundowns would provide Mailula with sufficient chances to re-establish himself," Mokoena added, emphasizing the depth required for a club competing across multiple fronts. While Mailula is actively participating in training, Mamelodi Sundowns has yet to make a formal announcement regarding his re-signing for the upcoming 2026/27 season. His potential return would add another layer of intrigue to an already formidable squad, as the club prepares for another season of domestic and continental challenges.