Mamelodi Sundowns icon Themba Zwane has confidently dismissed the notion
that the club’s recent signing of attacking midfielders is a move to phase
him out, instead framing it as a familiar and welcome challenge that raises
his own game.
Despite battling a series of niggling injuries and a previous six-month
layoff, the 36-year-old captain shows no insecurity about his place at
Chloorkop. The arrivals of Nuno Santos, Katlego Ntsabeleng, and Miguel
Reisinho—all who operate in his zones—have been met with characteristic
composure from the veteran.
“No, I don’t feel like that, to be honest. Since I’ve been here at Sundowns,
they always sign players, especially in my position,” Zwane stated at the
CAF Champions League draw. “You will find that maybe we are three or four.
So for me, I’m used to that. It’s good for me, actually, to always, when I
come back, I raise my level. As a player, it’s always good to have
competition.”
For Zwane, this internal competition is not a threat but a fundamental part
of the club’s culture that protects the high standards required for
sustained success. He sees it as a mechanism that forces every player,
including himself, to remain sharp.
Beyond his own role, Zwane has taken a leadership stance, urging the
Sundowns faithful to be patient with the new recruits. He expressed clear
optimism about the unique qualities they bring to the squad.
“To be honest, they are good players. For me, what I’m begging is just give
them time to adjust. I think they are going to help us going forward,” he
said, specifically praising Nuno Santos for his technique and Katlego
‘Tsiki’ Ntsabeleng for his interplay.
Zwane’s message is one of unwavering confidence—in his own ability, in the
club’s strategy, and in the new signings’ potential to strengthen Sundowns’
quest for dominance on all fronts.
