Monnapule Saleng has returned to Mamelodi Sundowns’ first-team training ahead of Saturday’s MTN8 final against Orlando Pirates.
The 28-year-old winger was seen taking part in Wednesday’s session, a significant development after he had been left out of first-team training for an extended period.
Sundowns will face Pirates at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on Saturday evening as they attempt to win the trophy against Saleng’s former club. However, it remains uncertain whether the player will be included in the squad for the final.
Saleng moved to Sundowns from Pirates but has endured a difficult spell since joining the club. He has not played for the Brazilians this season, prompting further questions about his future.
Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso recently said the matter was no longer one for the coaching staff and had instead been referred to the club’s management.
The winger was previously excluded from first-team training after reportedly refusing to travel with Sundowns for last season’s CAF Champions League final.
His return to the group comes before Sundowns’ latest meeting with Pirates and may indicate a change in his position within the club, although there has been no confirmation that he will play in Saturday’s match.
Saleng’s agent, Karabo Mathang Tshabuse, has previously discussed the difficulties surrounding her client.
“He is travelling a very difficult path,” she said, adding that while she could see there was a problem, she was not able to establish exactly what it was.
Tshabuse also said Saleng’s responses during periods of distress could sometimes be difficult to manage. She added that she had witnessed similar challenges in different environments.
The agent said she had tried to obtain professional support for the player.
“What I can do is I can call for help, I can cry for help, I can walk with my client for that help, but it is up to him to say, let’s take it.”
Saleng’s return to training places the focus on whether Cardoso and Sundowns’ management will select the former Orlando Pirates player for the MTN8 final.