Miguel Cardoso is impressed by Thato Sibiya's move to France!

Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has given his full backing to defender Thato Sibiya's impending transfer to French Ligue 1 side LOSC Lille, describing the move as a major step forward for the young player's career.

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Thato Sibiya and his performance in South Africa prompted him to move to France!

The left-footed defender has reportedly caught the attention of the French club with a series of impressive performances in the PSL, and a deal is now believed to be close to completion. Speaking on Monday, Cardoso made it clear that he views the transfer as a positive development—not just for Sibiya, but for South African football as a whole.

"Regarding Thato, it's a fantastic opportunity," said Cardoso. "As you know, I coached in France, so I know very well the club he goes to, I know very well the facilities that they have, I know very well the stability in terms of the process of developing young players."

The Portuguese tactician went on to warn that the challenge ahead will be significant, but expressed confidence in Sibiya's ability to adapt. "It's also at the same time a very, very competitive environment that he'll face. Obviously, I think he's ready for the challenge."

Cardoso offered insight into the stylistic demands of French football, which he believes will test the defender's capabilities. "French football is very special, it's a very flat football. He will have to cope with a lot of fast players, it's a game of transition, a lot of exploitation of spaces. In some moments it can be compared to our game, but Lille is a good school of football, a team that likes to play good football."

While acknowledging that Sundowns would have liked to retain the promising youngster, Cardoso emphasized the broader importance of the move. "As much as we believe he could be an important player for the future of Sundowns, we also know he will be an important player for the future of South Africa—that's an opportunity it's difficult to say no."

Hazem Mlhem |

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Hazem Mlhem est un rédacteur sportif expérimenté, animé par une passion pour le football africain.

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