Sundowns Youth Excellence: Sam Mbatha and Paulo Cardoso Reflect on a Historic Season

Sundowns Youth Excellence:

Sam Mbatha and Paulo Cardoso Reflect on a Historic Season

Author: John Aliu

Mamelodi Sundowns’ Youth Academy has completed a historic season, winning titles in every Gauteng Development League (GDL) age group. This clean sweep goes beyond trophies, reflecting a carefully structured approach to player and coach development that is deeply rooted in the Club’s philosophy and culture.

The Digital Magazine team spoke with Paulo Cardoso (Head of Academy - Youth Development) and Sam Mbatha (Technical Manager - Youth Development) to explore the principles behind this success.

1) What does this clean sweep say about the Academy’s development structure and philosophy?

Sam Mbatha (SM): “This clean sweep shows a clear strategic technical direction aligned with the Club’s vision, being followed faithfully and implemented with purpose. What excites me most is its flexibility — the structure allows us to develop further and reach the highest levels of success and sustainability. It is reinforced by a clear philosophy around recruitment, ensuring that only the right young talents enter our Academy.”

Paulo Cardoso (PC): “It shows the Academy’s structure is working as designed, with a clear philosophy rooted in Sundowns’ culture and strengths. It reflects a system that blends local insight with international best practices, implemented with wisdom, precision and respect for the Club’s identity.”

2) How do you ensure consistency in playing style, attitude and professionalism across age groups?

PC: “We ensure consistency by introducing our tactical approach gradually across age groups, allowing players to learn the principles step by step. By the time they reach the older teams, the transition is seamless because the foundation is already there. We reinforce attitude and professionalism daily, ensuring the boys fully understand the standards and discipline required.”

SM: “It begins with a unified Technical Program shared across all age groups. The playing style stays constant, while methodology varies in intensity, loading and recovery for each category. Attitude and professionalism are reinforced through clear Academy rules, understood by coaches, staff and players alike. This ensures every young man at Sundowns develops according to the Club’s standards.”

3) What qualities does the Club look for when appointing youth coaches?

SM: “One of the most important qualities we look for is a coach who is a true student of the game. If a coach is committed to learning, he will naturally instill a culture of learning within the boys — not only on the pitch but also academically. This is crucial for holistic development. We want coaches who love development, who have patience, who understand the responsibility of shaping the next generation.”

PC: “At Sundowns, developing coaches is as important as developing players. We value those who are curious, adaptable and eager to learn. Understanding the Club’s methodology is essential, but so is translating it into practical training and matches. A great coach is a lifelong student of the game, developing talent holistically while upholding professionalism and the Club’s standards.”

4) Beyond trophies, which other developmental benchmarks matter?

PC: “We look at the growth of each player in terms of technical skills, tactical understanding, and physical development, supported by our structured training methodology and focus on physiology. We also assess their mental and emotional maturity, their ability to handle pressure and how well they embrace the values and culture of the Club.”

SM: “The true benchmarks are the growth, development and progress of each coach and each boy in the program. When these individuals grow, the Academy becomes sustainable. The Club’s investment — not just financial, but human — begins to multiply. Our objective is not only to win leagues but to contribute to the future of our country and continent.”

5) What does a festive season away from football look like for you?

SM: “My life has always revolved around youth football and I have no regrets. As a forerunner in youth development, my festive seasons were never far from football, focusing on players, coaches and communities. It has been a lifetime of dedication that helped shape Academies nationwide and the success of Junior National Teams and the Gauteng Development League.”

PC: “For me, a festive season away from football is a chance to take a proper break, spend quality time with family and recharge after a long year. It is about enjoying the simple moments — sharing meals, laughter and creating memories with loved ones — while stepping back from the daily routines of the Academy.”

6) What are you looking forward to this festive season?

PC: “This year, I am really looking forward to some well-deserved rest and the opportunity to connect more with my family. After a busy season focused on developing both players and coaches, I want to relax, reflect on the year’s achievements, and simply enjoy the festive moments with the people who matter most.”

SM: “I am not getting any younger, so this year I am genuinely looking forward to a proper, relaxing festive break — something I honestly have not had in many years. Even during holidays, I found myself involved in personal development or mentoring young, aspiring youth coaches. This year, I hope to simply rest, breathe and enjoy the moments I have missed.”

7) What is your favourite festive meal you can’t wait to have?

SM: “My favourite festive meal? Definitely a good Potjie Kos — especially oxtail — more so if it is prepared by men around the fire for a good conversation recapping the year! Ha! Ha! Ha!”

PC: “My favourite festive meal is a traditional family feast from the place where my family comes from in Portugal. We usually prepare it on Christmas Eve and enjoy it together the following day (on the 25th). It is more than just food — it is a special family event, filled with laughter, stories and the joy of being together during Christmas.”

8) What are your plans for 2026 & what do you look forward to most – as the Academy?

PC: “In 2026, we will be focused on continuing to develop our young players and helping them reach the next stage in their careers. I hope to see more of our boys representing South Africa at national team levels and achieving success both locally and internationally. We aim to increase the impact of our Academy exponentially — not just in terms of trophies, but by producing players with the skills, mentality and professionalism to thrive at the highest levels of football.”

SM: “In 2026, we aim to help the Academy consolidate all the achievements of recent years and push them even further. Our mission is clear: dominate youth development in South Africa and produce high-quality players — boys and girls — with the mentality and winning culture needed for senior football, both at Mamelodi Sundowns and internationally.

9) What do you hope for most in 2026?

SM: “I hope for renewed focus on the fundamentals of youth development and preparation. I want to see the Academy grow from strength to strength and become one of the best in the world in terms of player development.”

PC: “My greatest hope for 2026 is that our boys continue to excel both on and off the pitch, growing not only as footballers but as well-rounded individuals. I also hope to see the First Team achieve further success, building on the strong foundation laid by the Academy and making the Club and its supporters proud.”

Staying Sharp: Sundowns Stars Share Their Festive Fitness Plans

Celebrity vs Supporter

Fun & Trivia

Zaid April Secures His Maiden Mamelodi Sundowns Esports Championship Title

Tsiki Ntsabeleng’s Homecoming: Creativity and Dynamism for Sundowns’ Midfield

Mamelodi Sundowns Magazine

Categories

Social Footprints