After Mamelodi Sundowns had their first official game of the season, new head coach Manqoba Mngqithi could have shown his hand on how he differs with former coach Rulani Mokwena on player selections.
Mokwena's acrimonious departure from The Brazilians in the off-season, is believed to have sent shock waves even in the team's dressing room, as the 37-year-old coach was close to most of the players.
Read: How Downs Should Use Rayners, Sales Shalulile
Although every coach has a preference of a style of play and players that suits the way he wants to play, the young tactician's shock exit will affect game time of certain players.
After Masandawana needed extra-time to edge Polokwane City 1-0 in the MTN8 quarter-finals, through an own goal by Thabang Matuludi, Soccer Laduma analyzes the above situation.
Khuliso Mudau
Mokwena hogged the headlines last season, after a note he sent to 'Sailor' was leaked, in a Nedbank Cup final, which read: "I said I could take a bullet for you!! I'm asking you not to give up on me!!"
The letter raised question marks on favouritism under the young coach at Sundowns, as Mudau was clearly injured but was not substituted.
The 29-year-old played 71 minutes against City, before he was replaced by Thapelo Morena, which was a rarity for him to be subbed under Mokwena.
Mudau remains one of the key players yet to renew his contract which expires in June 2025.
Grant Kekana
Kekana, who was a regular under Mokwena, could find minimal chances to play under Mngqithi, after he was only introduced early in extra-time against Rise and Shine in place of Lucas Ribeiro Costa to lock the game.
The 53-year-old coach prefers Rivaldo Coetzee in central defence instead of Kekana.
The former SuperSport United utility player is reportedly still in negotiations with Sundowns over an improved contract, particularly financially.
Thembinkosi Lorch
It remains to be seen how much Lorch will be used under Mngqithi, after allegations in the media that Mokwena's departure was influenced by his decision to sign the former Orlando Pirates midfielder, against Sporting Director Flemming Berg's wishes, reportedly a big factor in the alleged fallout with the Dane.
Lorch, who was injured during the off-season, has reportedly returned to training, although the MTN8 semi-finals may come too soon for him.
Lesiba Nku
Nku was developing into a game-changer for Sundowns, in the latter stages of last season, scoring crucial goals under Mokwena.
However, the 28-year-old winger was an unused substitute against his former club during the 120 minutes, which indicates that he could struggle for game time under Mngqithi, with the likes of Tashreeq Matthews, Themba Zwane and Thapelo Maseko seemingly ahead in the pecking order.
