Former Mamelodi Sundowns striker Mame Niang has opened up about his decision to join the Tshwane giants despite having the opportunity to play for Orlando Pirates. The former forward made a surprising revelation, admitting that money played a major role in his decision to sign for Sundowns.

Niang explained that he had wanted to play for Orlando Pirates and was close to joining the Soweto giants before Sundowns made a better financial offer. According to him, he was also linked with Kaizer Chiefs, but his career eventually took him to Chloorkop.

The former striker revealed that he was not particularly worried about getting regular playing time when he joined Sundowns because he had already played many matches during his career. Instead, he was more interested in securing a financially rewarding deal.

“I wanted to play for Orlando Pirates, but I went to Sundowns to milk them for money,” Niang said.

His comments offer an interesting perspective on the decisions footballers sometimes make when choosing between clubs. While supporters often expect players to prioritise team loyalty, playing opportunities and the chance to win trophies, financial considerations can also influence their decisions.

Niang further explained that former Sundowns coach Pitso Mosimane played a role in the negotiations that eventually led to his move to the club.

According to the former striker, Mosimane asked him whether he was going to join Orlando Pirates after learning that the Buccaneers had contacted him. Niang said he confirmed that Pirates had approached him, but Sundowns then asked him to reveal the offer he had received from their rivals.

He claimed that Sundowns subsequently offered him a better financial package, which convinced him to join the club instead.

The revelation is likely to attract attention from Orlando Pirates supporters, particularly because Niang admitted that he had wanted to wear the black and white jersey before choosing Sundowns.

Pirates and Sundowns have enjoyed a fierce rivalry in South African football, with both clubs regularly competing for major honours. As a result, stories involving players who nearly joined one club before signing for the other often generate considerable discussion among supporters.

Niang's remarks also highlight how negotiations can change the direction of a footballer's career. Although he had the opportunity to join Pirates, the financial offer from Sundowns ultimately influenced his decision.

For Pirates supporters, the revelation may raise questions about what could have happened if Niang had chosen a different path. Meanwhile, Sundowns fans may view his comments as an honest account of the financial considerations behind his move.

What do you think about Mame Niang's revelation? Should footballers prioritise money or their preferred club when making career decisions?

Source; https://www.facebook.com/100082701413998/posts/1114044604695576/?app=fbl