Mamelodi Sundowns’ new signing Lazola Maku will have to wait a little longer before making his debut in the CAF Champions League, but the midfielder could become available for the group stages if the Tshwane giants secure qualification.

Sundowns confirmed Maku’s arrival as a free agent, adding another young option to a midfield department already filled with quality. However, the timing of his signing means he will not be eligible to feature in Friday’s second-leg preliminary-round encounter against Angolan side Wiliete.

The situation could change once the competition reaches the group phase. The third registration window, which allows clubs to register players for the group stages, opened on October 1 and closes at the end of the month. Sundowns therefore have an opportunity to include Maku in their squad for the next stage, provided they progress and complete the required registration procedures.

The group stages are expected to begin in November and run until the end of January 2027. Under the competition’s registration rules outlined in the report, players must be registered at least 72 hours before a match to be eligible to play. Clubs can register a maximum of 40 players over the course of the season.

Although Maku could become available for continental action, securing a place in the Sundowns starting line-up will be another challenge. The club boasts considerable depth in midfield, meaning the youngster will need to impress the technical team to earn regular opportunities.

His previous experience with South Africa’s junior national teams could help him adjust to the demands of playing at a higher level. Maku has been part of teams that won the COSAFA Under-20 Youth Championship and the Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations, giving him experience in regional and continental competition.

His arrival also comes at a potentially significant time for Sundowns. Midfielder Marcelo Allende has indicated that the current campaign will be his last with the club, raising the possibility that Sundowns are preparing for a future without the Chilean.

Maku’s signing does not necessarily confirm that he is being brought in as Allende’s replacement. However, the young midfielder now has an opportunity to establish himself at one of South Africa’s leading clubs, with the CAF Champions League group stages potentially providing his first chance to feature on the continental stage.

Source: https://x.com/soccer_laduma/status/2112624987026637059?s=46