Sundowns Advised on Saleng: As a Coach, You First Investigate

Veteran coach Augusto Palacios has advised Mamelodi Sundowns on how to handle the situation involving winger Monnapule Saleng. Palacios says coaches must carefully look into the root of any mental health problem before deciding on the next steps.

Saleng, who is 28, has not played a competitive match for Sundowns this season. He has faced disciplinary action after failing to attend training camps more than once during the 2025/26 campaign. The club isolated him from the main group to keep harmony in the squad. He has since returned to training, but his place in the team remains unclear.

His agent, Karabo Mathang-Tshabuse, has confirmed that Saleng is dealing with mental health challenges. Help has been sought, but progress depends on whether the player accepts the support offered to him.

Speaking on the matter, Palacios stressed that mental health issues in football can come from different places. “For me, it really depends on what type of mental health problem it is,” he said. “Remember, in football you have mental illness because you’re injured, you have mental illness because you have family problems, you have mental illness because you are drinking or taking drugs. So, it depends.”

He added that a coach must first find out if the problem is linked to the game or to the player’s private life. “It is important that, as a coach, you first investigate what type of mental health problem he has and whether it involves soccer or his private life, you understand? That’s my advice. First investigate or observe what the problem is so that you will know whether he needs a specialist doctor or a psychologist.”

Sundowns, under coach Miguel Cardoso, have a busy period ahead. They face Wiliete SC in the return leg of their CAF Champions League tie, Marumo Gallants in the Carling Knockout, and Durban City in the Betway Premiership. The club is focused on keeping the squad united while dealing with individual player issues.

Palacios’ comments highlight the need for a careful approach when players face personal struggles. By understanding the cause first, the club can decide the right kind of help for Saleng as he works to get back into the team. His involvement in upcoming matches will depend on how the situation develops and whether he is ready to contribute.

Source: https://x.com/KickOffMagazine/status/2112529520955707668