While acknowledging the remarkable efforts by Orlando Pirates’ Patrick Maswanganyi and Stellenbosch FC’s Jayden Adams, Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena is of the view that the real race for the PSL Footballer of the Season is between four of his players.
With the DStv Premiership title race done and dusted, the battle for the best player in the PSL is the hot topic in South African football.
Several coaches, players and former players have made their opinions about who they believe is more suitable to walk away with the coveted award known.
READ: Cavin Johnson backs Mamelodi Sundowns duo for PSL Footballer of the Season award
Mokwena, who is rewriting the history books with his unstoppable Sundowns team, reckons no player has done better than goalkeeper Ronwen Williams, midfield maestro Teboho Mokoena, Lucas Ribeiro and Marcelo Allende.
“I don’t think we’ve seen the best of Ribeiro, even though I think he is a close contender for the Footballer of the Season,” Mokwena said of his Brazilian star who arrived in the country at the beginning of the season.
Ribeiro has played 17 games in the league, scored 12 goals, and is in the race for the Golden Boot Award.
The Brazilian is three goals behind leading Tshegofatso Mabasa of Pirates and two behind Stellies’ Iqraam Rayners.
“I honestly think, in my opinion, as I have said before it’s (between) Ronwen Williams, Lucas Ribeiro, Marcelo Allende and Teboho Mokoena,” Mokwena said.
“And then, you must commend the contribution of Maswanganyi and maybe Adams, but the reality is the level of Ronza (Williams), the level of Marcelo Allende, when he came on today (on Tuesday) you could see, and the level of Lucas Ribeiro, for me they have been outstanding this season.”
Maswanganyi, only playing his maiden season with Pirates after joining SuperSport United, helped to guide the Sea Robbers to the MTN8 glory early into the campaign.
He can still finish the campaign with a cup double if Pirates pip Sundowns in the Nedbank Cup final at Mbombela Stadium on June 1.
The skilful midfielder has scored nine goals and provided 12 assists in all competitions.
Adams, linked with a move to Sundowns, is Carling Knockout champion and has helped Stellies to qualify for Caf inter-club football next season.
The 23-year-old has scored three goals and provided eight assists across all competitions.
Last night's match winners! 🔥
— Mamelodi Sundowns FC (@Masandawana) May 15, 2024
How are we feeling this morning? ⬇️#Sundowns #DStvPrem pic.twitter.com/0EW8IhMwkG
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