Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has made it clear: Arthur Sales is a valuable addition to the squad, but he's not a direct replacement for the departing Lucas Ribeiro. Speaking after Sundowns' 2-0 victory over AmaZulu in the Betway Premiership, Cardoso addressed speculation surrounding both players.
Ribeiro, the reigning Footballer of the Year, Players’ Player of the Year, and Golden Boot winner, is reportedly heading to Qatar. His departure leaves a significant void, particularly on the right-hand side where he excelled. However, Cardoso is keen to manage expectations surrounding Sales, who also plays in that position.
“It’s important that we understand one thing,” Cardoso stated. “Since last year, there’s been a lot of misunderstanding around Arthur Sales – people judging. First of all, people should look at him as himself and not imagine that, now he’s playing on the right, they’ll see Lucas Ribeiro.”
Cardoso emphasized that Sales is a unique player with his own strengths and qualities. He doesn't want the young Brazilian to be burdened by comparisons to Ribeiro. “There’s no one who is going to be Lucas Ribeiro, and the coach is not looking for someone to be Lucas Ribeiro on the right – because that doesn’t exist.”
While Ribeiro's move to Qatar hasn't been officially announced by the club, Cardoso's comments strongly suggest that the deal is imminent. The coach's focus is now on integrating Sales into the team and helping him develop into a key player in his own right. Sundowns fans will be eager to see what Sales can bring to the team as they look to continue their dominance in the Betway Premiership.
Key Takeaways:
- Lucas Ribeiro is likely leaving Mamelodi Sundowns for Qatar.
- Arthur Sales is not intended as a direct replacement for Ribeiro.
- Coach Miguel Cardoso wants Sales to be judged on his own merits.
- Sundowns aim to continue their winning form in the Betway Premiership.