Mamelodi Sundowns left-back Thato Sibiya has joined French Ligue 1 club LOSC Lille on a one-year loan deal that includes an option to buy.
The 20-year-old, a product of the Mamelodi Sundowns academy, becomes the latest South African player to move to Europe after catching the eye in the DStv Diski Challenge.
LOSC Lille confirmed that Sibiya will initially be part of the club’s reserve team as he adjusts to European football. The French side announced the transfer in an official statement on its website.
“LOSC is satisfied to be able to support the emergence of Thato Sibiya today. We wish him a warm welcome and the best adaptation to the Pro 2 group of Les Dogues.”
The move marks a significant step in Sibiya’s development following his contribution to South Africa’s success at the 2025 U20 Africa Cup of Nations. He also represented the country at the U20 FIFA World Cup.
Sibiya said former Mamelodi Sundowns striker Lebo Mothiba, who previously played for Lille, encouraged him to accept the opportunity in France.
“Before coming, I spoke with Lebo Mothiba, who was my teammate at Mamelodi Sundowns. When I told him that I had the possibility of coming here, he replied that I should not hesitate and go for it. He was very happy for me and spoke very positively about the club and the city.”
The South African defender will now begin his adaptation to life in European football with Lille’s reserve side, known as the Pro 2 group of Les Dogues.
The transfer adds to a growing list of South African youngsters seeking to establish themselves in European football after making an impression domestically. Sibiya’s performances in the DStv Diski Challenge helped attract attention before his move to Lille was completed.
Sundowns face AmaZulu after MTN8 defeat
Mamelodi Sundowns host AmaZulu FC at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on the same evening, with kick-off scheduled for 19:30.
The Brazilians are aiming to respond after losing to Golden Arrows in their weekend MTN8 cup fixture. AmaZulu arrive well-rested and will look to make the most of Sundowns’ recent setback.
The visitors are expected to rely on quick counter-attacks as they attempt to cause a major upset. AmaZulu will also hope any lingering fatigue within the Pretoria side can work in their favour.
The match presents Sundowns with an opportunity to re-assert their local dominance, while AmaZulu face the challenge of overcoming the reigning domestic force in a high-stakes contest.
WIN R5 000: Take The South African’s Winter Reader Survey
