Makaab clarifies Rivaldo Coetzee Sundowns future

By Ayanda Nyuswa

Gagasi FM Sports specialist Mike Makaab has clarified the uncertainty surrounding Rivaldo Coetzee’s future at Mamelodi Sundowns, as his clients contract is set to expire in June 2024.

The 27-year old midfielder has been battling with injuries in recent seasons which has seen him receive very little game time in Rhulani Mokwena’s side. His injury record has raised concerns about his future at the club with his contract coming to an end, and if Sundowns will activate the option to extend his stay further.

Speaking on Extra time on Gagasi FM Makaab has rubbished reports of Coetzee’s exit at Sundowns and says the talks between the club and player are still on-going, and indications were that Sundowns will exercise the option to extend his contract.

“Whoever has stated that Sundowns have decided to part ways with Rivaldo and their not going to exercise the option, I am not sure who has given that information to the media,” said Makaab.

”I was with the club a little over two or three weeks ago and the indications were that Mamelodi Sundowns were going to exercise the option. Things change in football we all know that, but I will be having a meeting with the club over the next few weeks and I guess at that meeting Rivaldo’s decision will be made. As I say  they have an option and they have to exercise the option by the end of May we have to honour that, and if they don’t exercise the option by the end of May then Rivaldo is free to join the club of his choice,” Makaab added.

Makaab was also asked about the chances of Sundowns exercising the option and said:

”I think there are you know, I think if you have a look, Rivaldo has been plagued with injuries we know that, I think he played something like ten games at the beginning of the season and I am not sure Mamelodi Sundowns lost a game when Rivaldo played I could be wrong but they haven’t lost many games anyway so that’s probably a little bit of a nothing statement. Rivaldo has always show that he is extremely capable of fitting in with the style of football that Mamelodi Sundowns play, capable to play from the back, play at central defence and he can play at six. He passes the ball beautifully, and yes he’s been plagued with injuries but we just have to pray that this is now behind him and hopefully in a couple of weeks he will be ready to play.”

says the talks between Sundowns and Coetzee are on-going, and there were clear indi