Ronnie Kananelo reflects on emotional return to former club mamelodi sundowns

RONNIE KANALELO GETS EMOTIONAL AS HE OPENS UP ABOUT HIS SPECIAL RETURN TO MAMELODI SUNDOWNS

JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA — 31 OCTOBER 2026

Marumo Gallants head coach Ronnie Kanalelo has opened up about his emotional return to Mamelodi Sundowns, admitting that stepping back into familiar surroundings brought back unforgettable memories from his playing career.

The Namibian tactician recently returned to Loftus Versfeld with Gallants for their Carling Knockout Round of 16 encounter against his former club, where Sundowns secured a narrow 1-0 victory to advance to the quarter-finals.

For Kanalelo, however, the occasion was about much more than football. It represented a personal reunion with a club that played a significant role in shaping his professional career.

The former goalkeeper spent several years at Chloorkop after joining Sundowns in 1997. He eventually departed at the beginning of 2006, bringing an important chapter of his football journey to an end.

Speaking to iDiski Times, Kanalelo admitted that returning to the club brought back strong emotions, particularly because Sundowns was the only professional team he represented during his playing career.

“I’m emotional about it, I only had one professional team in my career, I spent a lot of time here, coming in 1997, I left here in the beginning of 2006 – so that’s a long time, of course when you come here, you feel something,” Kanalelo explained.

The Gallants coach also reflected on the memories associated with the stadium, supporters and familiar faces who were still around after all those years.

He explained that seeing some of the same supporters reminded him of the special moments he experienced while representing the Tshwane giants.

“You look at the stadium, remember the good games here, some of the same fans are still around – but it’s the game of football, I’m in a different space now and that’s where I have to give me all, it’s about being a professional,” he added.

Despite the emotional connection, Kanalelo made it clear that his responsibilities have changed. Having been entrusted with leading Marumo Gallants, his priority is now to deliver results for his current employers.

His return also came during a challenging period for Gallants, who have struggled for consistency since his appointment following the departure of Phuti Mohafe.

The defeat against Sundowns ended their Carling Knockout campaign, leaving the coach with the responsibility of redirecting his attention towards improving the team’s performances in the Betway Premiership.

For Kanalelo, the reunion was a reminder of his footballing past, but his immediate focus remains on building a better future with Marumo Gallants.

Source https://x.com/iDiskiTimes/status/2116496562570359268

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