Former Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates dribbling wizard Jabu Mahlangu has received a backlash for suggesting that Mamelodi Sundowns are dominating the local football scene because of their financial muscle.
In a social media video that has gone viral, Mahlangu accuses Sundowns of destroying the standard of local football, suggesting that something must be done to stop the Brazilians on how they recruit players.
“Personally I am struggling to watch PSL [Premier Soccer League] matches because the standard has dropped immensely,” Mahlangu says in the video.
“We suggested the issue of financial fair play in the league, and we understand that people want their teams to win all the time, but what is happening now is killing our national team. Something must be done.
“Check the players that are not playing, top players including [Lesedi] Kapinga, [Mosa] Lebusa, and [Rivaldo] Coetzee, they remain in the stands. The list is endless. All our best players are in the same team and they don’t play. So, something must be done, because they [Sundowns] are destroying [local football].”
Believe it or Not. Fact 🤞
What's your take football lovers? pic.twitter.com/xcY6HazjnS
— Jabu Mahlangu (@JabuMahlangu12) January 23, 2023
The comments from the Daveyton-born soccer star have since attracted criticism from many football lovers.
The disrespect directed to @coach_rulani is too much in SA and it must come to and end. I'm disgusted by the video recorded by @JabuMahlangu12 claiming Sundowns is winning because of money and disregard the sterling work that coach Rulani is doing at the club. pic.twitter.com/T3WiDBT3Le
— King Shaba (@DJShabaSA) January 24, 2023
What Jabu Mahlangu said is not making any sense to me personally. Right Richardsbay is occupying the 2nd position on the log, because of their performance not money. Sundowns is doing absolutely nothing, they are just investing properly& getting their return on investment.
— Boineelo Mohau Mokhobo (Pr Techni Eng) (@MokhoboMohau) January 24, 2023
We cant talk of FFP when there’s no transparency. What are you basing your argument on, speculations? Just like in other leagues there’s been a shift in dominance. Some adopted and others did an introspection.
— Lennox Bacela (@lennoxbacela) January 24, 2023
Give credit to the technical staff, the scouting department and all the work behind the scenes.
Sundowns have money yes, but so does Chiefs and Pirates – they are just not using it effectively.— Mazola J. Molefe (@superjourno) January 24, 2023
Meanwhile, the Brazilians visit TS Galaxy at the Mbombela Stadium on Tuesday evening, and will be looking to extend their 12-match unbeaten run in the league.
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