Mamelodi Sundowns have completed the permanent signing of Katlego “Tsiki” Ntsabeleng from Major League Soccer side FC Dallas, confirming the midfielder as their third new arrival ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.
Ntsabeleng follows Antonio Van Wyk and Siyanda Ndlovu in joining the CAF Champions League holders. The 28-year-old spent the 2025/26 season on loan at Sundowns, who have now exercised the purchase option included in his contract.
The club announced the agreement on social media with the message: “TSIKI REMAINS YELLOW. Katlego Ntsabeleng has made his move permanent and will continue his journey in Yellow.“
Ntsabeleng made 14 appearances in all competitions during his loan spell at Chloorkop, scoring two goals and providing one assist. His energy, creativity and ability to operate in different midfield roles added another dimension to a Sundowns side competing for domestic honours and continental success.
The transfer also represents a return to familiar surroundings for Ntsabeleng. Before moving to the United States, he progressed through the Sundowns youth structures and played for the club’s reserve team before continuing his development abroad.
His arrival gives head coach Miguel Cardoso another option in the attacking midfield positions. Ntsabeleng offers a different profile to Nuno Santos, Arthur Sales and Themba Zwane as Sundowns prepare for the demands of the new season.
Sundowns will begin their 2026/27 campaign on Saturday, 8 August, when they face Polokwane City in the MTN8 quarter-finals at Lucas Moripe Stadium. Kick-off is scheduled for 18:00.
The fixture will be Sundowns’ first competitive match of the season after their opening Betway Premiership game was postponed. The African champions are seeking to win the MTN8 for the first time since 2021.
Cardoso will, however, be without suspended striker Brayan Leon for the meeting with Polokwane City. Sundowns still have considerable quality available, with midfielders Marcelo Allende and Nuno Santos expected to play important roles in controlling the contest.
Polokwane City will travel to Tshwane in confident mood after beginning their Betway Premiership campaign with a 2-1 victory over Richards Bay. The Rise and Shine will be aiming to carry that momentum into the cup tie and produce an upset against the African giants.
Sundowns’ permanent agreement with Ntsabeleng provides an additional boost before their first competitive test of the campaign, while also securing the future of a player who impressed after returning to the club where his football development began.
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