Andile Jali is the latest player that Mamelodi Sundowns are looking to tie down. The club’s leaders and his representatives are currently discussing a new contract, according to coach Rulani Mokwena.
The 32-year-old’s current deal expires in June this year, and Mokwena has emphasized that the club want him to sign a new contract, as he is one of the most important at the club.
Jali has gained many admirers throughout his two years at the club. He was one of the players who won big at the PSL 2021/2022 season awards, having won midfielder of the season, MTN8 last man standing and Nedbank Cup player of the tournament.
He was a regular starter last season and during the first half of the current season under the co-coaching of Maqoba Mnqgithi and Mokwena. Mokwena believes that Jali has a key role to play at the club, not only as a player, but even as an assistant to him.
“He is the most important player for us, important for the future of this football club, he has incredible leadership qualities,” Mokwena told reporters after their 2-0 win over Orlando Pirates at Loftus Versveld Stadium on Friday.
“It’s very important to have around that mentality and insight. I use him even as a third assistant coach to tell you the truth because he sits on the bench, he gives me a lot of information on what he sees.
“He’s got incredible experience and that’s apart from his human qualities, which is something that we appreciate and love having within the club. The contractual and financial issues are handled by the department of this football club, and I’m certain that as soon as there is an update to be given, the club will issue it.”
Masandawana host struggling Swallows FC on Tuesday at Loftus Stadium, who have just hired former Kaizer Chiefs boss Ernst Middendorp to take over the reins from the then interim player coach Musa Nyatama.
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