Antonio van Wyk says the prospect of winning major trophies persuaded him to leave Europe and return to South Africa with Mamelodi Sundowns.
The 24-year-old winger spent two seasons in Austria after moving to SV Ried from Stellenbosch FC in 2024. Although playing in Europe remains an ambition for many South African footballers, Van Wyk decided that returning home was the right step for his career.
His choice was clear when the opportunity arose: if he was going back to South Africa, he would only join Mamelodi Sundowns, the African champions.
Van Wyk explained his decision during an appearance on the Sundowns Pitchside Podcast, saying the club’s history and consistent success were central to his thinking.
“I would say the history of the club, trophies as well. It’s guaranteed that this team will win a trophy or two every season,” said Van Wyk.
The winger said the chance to build a record of success was an important consideration as he looked to develop as a player.
“Obviously that’s a big aspect, as a player you obviously wanna be a decorated player in terms of trophies and numbers as well.
“So, I thought to help my game, I’m going to have to take the next step, and if it’s not in Europe, it should be the African champions.”
Van Wyk played 53 matches for SV Ried during his two-year spell in Austria. He scored four goals and supplied seven assists during that period.
Before moving abroad, he had made 78 appearances for Stellenbosch FC, scoring six goals and registering 11 assists. His return to South Africa now sees him join Mamelodi Sundowns after a European experience that lasted only two seasons.
For Van Wyk, the move represents a decision to prioritise the opportunity to compete for silverware and continue his progress with a club whose recent record has made trophies an expectation.
His comments underline the choice he faced between remaining abroad and coming back to South Africa. Rather than continue his career in Europe, he opted for what he believes is the next step with the African champions.
The article also references Siwelele FC’s purchase of shares in the Cheetahs.
The South African is promoting a Winter Reader Survey with a prize of R5,000.
