Mamelodi Sundowns continues its tradition of attracting the best players in the market, which explains why club legend Vuyo Mere is not surprised by the presence of five quality right-backs competing for one position in the Chloorkop.
Before the start of the season, Tabang Matuludi and Deano van Rooyen joined the Sundowns squad, strengthening a position that already included Khuliso Mudau, Tapelo Moreno, and Zuko Mdunyelwa.
Initially, it was expected that Moreno would fill the void after the injury to the main player Mudau, and Mdunyelwa would provide backup depth. However, Moreno's brief injury prompted Sundowns to spend significant funds on signing free agent Van Rooyen, who left Pirates, and subsequently they also brought in Matuludi.
Some critics argued that the club made a panic purchase by signing Van Rooyen and Matuludi, as they believed both players were superfluous, despite Sundowns' participation in numerous domestic, continental, and international tournaments.
Mere, who spent many years playing as a right-back for Sundowns before moving to other clubs and retiring, commented on this apparent overload of the position.
In an exclusive interview with IOL Sport, Mere stated: 'This is the culture at Mamelodi Sundowns—signing quality players. They don't wait until a player loses form; they always have quality options. It's not news to see several players competing for one position.' He added: 'We know the quality of Mdunyelwa and Moreno. We know that Khuliso Mudau will be unavailable for some time. They also have Van Rooyen, who is a quality player... it's good competition.'
Mudau's absence allowed Kamogelo Selebele from Orlando Pirates to take the starting right-back position for the Bafana Bafana national team, while Matuludi played as a substitute. Meanwhile, Moreno continues to be used as a versatile option.
When Mudau fully recovers, the fight for starting spots both in the club and at the national level should intensify. Nevertheless, Mere hopes that this rivalry remains healthy and based on camaraderie.
Mere emphasized: 'I think we must understand that every coach has their preferred players. If you focus on people's opinions or try to impress others, you end up with talk of clashes with teammates, which is completely unprofessional.' He gave examples: 'We have seen Tapelo Moreno and Khuliso Mudau play on the same team and both make it to the national team. We have Ricardo Goss and Ronwen Williams who compete for one position in the club and at the national level. They maintain excellent relationships, and that is due to a good heart. It comes with the game.' He concluded: 'If you open your heart and wish the best for others, good will always come back to you. This is a message that should be addressed to the young: as a professional footballer, be humble and wish others well.'