Peter Shalulile is on the cusp of making history. With just one more goal, the Namibian forward will surpass Siyabonga Nomvethe as the Premier Soccer League's all-time leading goalscorer across all domestic competitions.
And yet, for all his achievements, a cloud of uncertainty lingers over his future at Mamelodi Sundowns.
The 31-year-old has been a cornerstone of Sundowns' success in recent seasons — domestically and on the continent. This season alone, his goals have carried the Brazilians through crucial CAF Champions League clashes, including a match-winning strike against Esperance in the semi-final first leg. When the pressure has been at its peak, Shalulile has delivered.
So why then, as his contract nears its expiry, does it feel like his legacy is being treated with hesitation rather than celebration?
The Siya crew understands that teams from North Africa and Saudi Arabia are monitoring the situation closely. Sundowns, by contrast, appear sluggish in solidifying their commitment to a player who could soon become a living legend in South African football.
“It’s strange,” a source close to the situation said. “If you look at the past two CAF games – if it wasn’t for Shalulile, Downs would have been out. And yet, there’s no urgency from the club.”
Therein lies the mystery.
For a player who has broken records, scored crucial goals, led by example, and carried the team's attack through thick and thin, the silence from the club on his contract is deafening.
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This is not a fringe player. This is the club's all-time top scorer. This is a striker who embodies everything Mamelodi Sundowns have come to represent over the last half-decade: consistency, hunger, and continental ambition.
While much is often said about evolving team philosophies, fresh recruitment, and forward planning, those principles shouldn’t come at the cost of ignoring one’s best assets. Shalulile isn’t a player of the past—he remains a match-winner in the present.
And that makes one wonder: is Peter Shalulile being undervalued?
Football is full of stories where legends were allowed to fade away quietly, unappreciated until long after they were gone. Sundowns have always prided themselves on being different—pioneers, even. But as this contract situation drags on, it increasingly feels like a chapter from a book football fans have read too many times.
There is, of course, another layer to consider. At 31, this may be Shalulile’s last big contract. Interest from North Africa and the Middle East makes sense financially, and at this point in his career, few would begrudge him for seeking security and respect elsewhere if it isn’t guaranteed at home.
The player himself has not spoken publicly on the matter, but his silence is being filled by growing chatter among fans and insiders alike. Many supporters have voiced their concern, questioning how a club that rewards excellence so highly in other quarters could appear so casual about securing one of the most consistent goal scorers in the PSL’s modern era.
Shalulile’s contributions go beyond goals. He presses, he leads the line with endless running, he brings others into play, and above all, he carries himself with humility. He has never once made noise in the media or agitated for moves—he has simply delivered.
And now, standing on the brink of history, he faces an uncertain future.
Sundowns have a proud tradition of looking after their own. From Hlompho Kekana to Denis Onyango and more recently Themba Zwane. The club has in the past demonstrated loyalty to players who gave everything in the yellow and blue.
But with Shalulile, the delay in action speaks volumes.
Time is ticking, and other clubs are circling. If Sundowns are serious about maintaining their dominance and showing loyalty to one of their most iconic figures, the time to act is now.
Peter Shalulile’s name is about to be etched into the record books forever.
The only question that remains is whether Sundowns will ensure his legacy continues at Chloorkop — or whether another club will be the one to reap the rewards of valuing a modern-day legend.
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