Mamelodi Sundowns have officially announced the departures of long-serving stars Lebohang Maboe and Rivaldo Coetzee as the club reshapes its squad ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
Maboe, who spent last season on loan at cross-town rivals SuperSport United, impressed with his performances, but uncertainty over SuperSport’s future following the sale of their topflight status to Siwelele FC has contributed to the attacker seeking new opportunities.
The 29-year-old, who arrived at Chloorkop from Maritzburg United in 2018, leaves behind a decorated legacy that includes 183 appearances, 20 goals, 23 assists, and 12 major trophies.
Among his most memorable contributions was a league-winning hattrick that cemented his place in Sundowns folklore. In a statement posted to social media, the club expressed heartfelt gratitude:
"After 7 memorable years, 12 trophies, 183 appearances and that unforgettable league-winning hattrick – the Yellow Nation bids farewell to Lebohang Maboe. Masandawana wishes you nothing but success as you enter your next chapter."
Coetzee’s departure brings an end to an eight-year stay marked by both promise and frustration.
Once heralded as one of the country’s most gifted defenders, the 28-year-old saw his career interrupted by a long-term injury that kept him sidelined for extended periods.
Despite battling to regain a regular starting place, he featured in 133 matches for the Brazilians, scoring twice and providing six assists, while contributing to 14 trophies during a highly successful era for the club.
Sundowns acknowledged Coetzee’s perseverance and commitment to the cause, stating that while the time had come to part ways, the club would always hold the player in high regard for his professionalism and resilience.
The exits come amid a broader reshuffle at Chloorkop as Masandawana prepare for another season of high expectations both domestically and on the continent.
With several new signings expected and other departures anticipated, the club appears determined to refresh its squad while maintaining the standards that have made it the dominant force in South African football over the last decade.
Both Maboe and Coetzee are now free agents and will be evaluating options for their next moves, with interest expected from PSL rivals as well as potential overseas suitors.
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