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Mamelodi Sundowns’ manager, Miguel Cardoso, has shared his vision for the ideal captain at Chloorkop, highlighting the team’s abundance of experienced professionals and leaders ready to take on responsibility.
At present, club captain Themba Zwane is out of action due to an Achilles injury he incurred during Bafana Bafana’s 1-1 draw against Congo Brazzaville in October, and he is expected to be sidelined for an extended period.
With the midfield orchestrator unavailable, Ronwen Williams has stepped into the captain’s role, leading the team from his position as a goalkeeper – a position he also holds at the national level after being appointed captain by Hugo Broos.
Although the Portuguese coach hasn’t suggested any changes regarding the captaincy for the reigning Betway Premiership champions, he does have a clear idea of the type of leader he envisions for his squad.
“I favor captains who can assist the coach in guiding the team, demonstrating leadership by influencing their teammates’ actions on the field. This includes their conduct, how they treat opponents, and their interactions with referees,” Cardoso stated.
Cardoso also underscored the significance of having multiple leaders within the team, encouraging players to rise alongside the captain to cultivate a culture of collaboration and unity. “I want every player to embody the mentality of a captain; that’s crucial. Everyone should take on some responsibility so that the captain is merely one individual among many rather than the sole leader. I believe our players can achieve this, and our focus is on a collective spirit,” he explained.
“When a captain or one of the leaders, whether it’s Themba [Zwane], Denis [Onyango], Ronwen [Williams], or Teboho [Mokoena], calls for action, it’s to strengthen the group’s character. If that character is already instilled, there is less need for intervention.
“This means that every player can exhibit the right attitude, and sometimes it just takes emphasizing that mindset at a particular moment. Our locker room has a very open atmosphere, and Themba remains actively involved,” added the former Esperance de Tunis coach.
Cardoso’s first challenge with Sundowns will be against Moroccan giants Raja Athletic Club in the CAF Champions League at Loftus Stadium on Sunday (15:00), with both teams eager to earn vital points.
