ZUKO MDUNYELWA DELIGHTED WITH THE INTENSITY OF TRAINING AT MAMELODI SUNDOWNS
Newly signed Zuko Mdunyelwa has commenced training with Mamelodi Sundowns as Bafana Ba Style kick-start preparations for the second half of the season. The 24-year-old defender recently signed with Masandawana as the first mid-season addition of the transfer window.Known for his versatility and defensive prowess, Mdunyelwa was a regular at Chippa United in the last three seasons, playing in 13 of the Chilli Boys’ 15 matches thus far this campaign.
Talking about his delight of signing and the recation from his family, Zuko said, “The holidays were great and were made extra special because I had signed a contract with one of the biggest clubs on the Continent. Everyone at home is happy with my journey and they hope that I do well. To my father, the move came as no surprise as he has always said my hard work will pay off.”
Expressing how his first-ever training session and the first week with Masandawana went, the soft spoken defender said “The reception I received from the staff, coaches and the players when I joined the Club made me very excited. Coach Rulani was happy to see me and encouraged me to work hard as there is room to take my game to the next level. The training session was intensive and the transition from where I am coming from is very inspiring. I am looking forward to more training sessions, and I cannot wait to showcase my talent at this great club.”
Mdunyelwa, capable of playing as a central defender, left-back, or right-back, was also in awe of the training facilities at Chloorkop. He mentioned, “These are top-notch facilities that provide an ideal environment for players to develop. The commitment to excellence in both training and overall infrastructure here is impressive. It’s motivating to be part of a club that invests in creating the best possible conditions for its players. I believe these facilities will contribute to my growth as a player and the success of the team.”

The versatile defender also believes that his familiarity with some of the players will help him settle in, saying, “I know several members of the squad because I have played against and with some of them. I played with Sammy Seabi when he was on loan at Chippa United. I also know Jody February and Rushine De Reuck, who both hail from Cape Town.”

On what he hopes to achieve at Mamelodi Sundowns, Mdunyelwa says, “I am aiming to contribute to the team’s success in winning the DStv Premiership and the CAF Champions League. Additionally, I aspire to make a lasting impression and earn the opportunity to represent Bafana Bafana in international competitions. My goal is to deliver on the objectives I came here for.”
Mdunyelwa started his journey in professional football, featuring for Western Cape outfits Cape Town City FC and Cape Umoya FC before joining Chippa United in 2021. The versatile defender will have to wait until Valentine’s Day to be considered for a debut when Mamelodi Sundowns travels to Golden Arrows.
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