Sundowns' Plan for Their Two New Signings Revealed As Maku Begins New Chapter

Mamelodi Sundowns are continuing to strengthen their squad with promising talent, with the arrival of young midfielder Lazola Maku adding another exciting prospect to their plans. The South African champions have secured the services of the Amajita captain after his departure from Siwelele FC, giving the 19-year-old an opportunity to develop his career at one of the country's biggest clubs.

Maku's journey to Chloorkop has been an interesting one. Following the end of his contract with Siwelele, the midfielder travelled to Austria, where he underwent assessments with several clubs as he explored opportunities to continue his career abroad. However, he returned to South Africa to represent Amajita at the COSAFA Under-20 Championship, where he gained valuable playing time and helped the national team retain its title.

His performances during the tournament further strengthened his reputation as one of South Africa's promising young midfielders. Under the leadership of Maku, Amajita defeated hosts Mozambique 2-1 in the final to lift the trophy and secure qualification for the next Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations.

The midfielder had already attracted attention through his performances at the Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt in 2025, where South Africa claimed the title after beating Morocco 1-0 in the final. His contribution to the national team's success demonstrated his leadership qualities and ability to compete at a high level.

Before leaving Siwelele, Maku had made five senior-team appearances, gaining his first experience of professional football. His move to Sundowns therefore represents an important step in his development as he prepares to compete for opportunities in a squad filled with experienced players.

The Brazilians are known for recruiting talented youngsters and providing them with an environment where they can improve technically and tactically. However, breaking into the first team at Chloorkop is never straightforward, particularly in midfield, where competition for places remains intense.

Sundowns will likely want Maku to settle into the team's playing philosophy, adapt to the demands of the club and continue improving before being entrusted with greater responsibilities. His age gives the club an opportunity to invest in his long-term development rather than rushing him into regular first-team action.

For Maku, the immediate challenge will be to turn his international success into consistent performances at club level. His leadership experience with Amajita could prove valuable as he adjusts to the expectations that come with representing Sundowns.

Did you like this feature?

The signing also fits Sundowns' broader approach of bringing in promising players who can strengthen the squad over time. Maku's arrival follows the club's continued recruitment drive ahead of the 2026/27 campaign, as the Brazilians seek to maintain their dominance in domestic football while remaining competitive in Africa.

SuperSport +1

Attention will now turn to how quickly Maku can adapt to his new surroundings. His European assessments exposed him to different football environments, while his experience with Amajita provided valuable competitive minutes during a crucial period in his career.

Although his immediate role at Sundowns remains to be established, the move offers him an opportunity to learn from experienced professionals and compete at a higher level.

For the Tshwane giants, the priority will be ensuring that their new recruit develops at the right pace. If Maku continues to build on his performances for Amajita, he could become an important player in Sundowns' plans for the future.

Source https://x.com/Soccer_Laduma/status/2117198839769686492?a=BMb4lCWoxSgPvdEqz0c&s=19