Mamelodi Sundowns could be forced to allow some of their fringe players to leave on loan during the January transfer window following their disappointing elimination from the CAF Champions League.

The Brazilians suffered an unexpected early exit from the continental competition after being eliminated by Angolan side Wiliete SC. Sundowns were held to a 1-1 draw in the second leg, with Wiliete progressing on the away-goals rule.

The result was a major disappointment for the defending champions, who entered the competition with ambitions of retaining their continental title and reaching the group stages.

According to KickOff on Sunday, November 1, 2026, former Sundowns defender Hilton Jordaan believes the club could consider allowing some players to leave on loan when the January transfer window opens.

Jordaan suggested that the early elimination could affect squad planning, particularly for players who have struggled to receive regular playing time.

"I think they may know what to do. I think there might be some players going out on loan in January, but I think they will keep the nucleus of that squad. They still got the Carling Knockout, there's a league, and there is Nedbank Cup also," Jordaan told KickOff.

His comments suggest that Sundowns could make adjustments to their squad without necessarily breaking up the core group of players.

The former defender also described the elimination as a major setback, especially considering that Sundowns won the CAF Champions League last season and were among the favourites to progress further in the competition.

"It was a shock that they didn't beat a side from Angola, and now they have to focus on the Carling Knockout. It is a blow for Sundowns because they won the Champions League last season, which made them the tournament's favourites. So for them to go out in the first round wasn't part of the plan," he added.

The early exit means Sundowns will now concentrate entirely on domestic competitions for the remainder of their campaign.

The club still has the Betway Premiership, Carling Knockout and Nedbank Cup to compete for, giving the technical team several opportunities to fight for silverware.

However, the absence of continental football could change the situation for players who were hoping to get more opportunities through squad rotation.

With the January transfer window approaching, attention will be on whether Sundowns decide to send some fringe players out on loan or maintain their current squad structure.

For now, no mass departure has been confirmed, but Jordaan's comments have raised questions about possible changes at Chloorkop.

Source; https://www.facebook.com/100064555429593/posts/1545606617601171/?app=fbl