Cardoso calls Santos an extraordinary player at Mamelodi Sundowns

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has described Nuno Santos as an extraordinary player while defending the Portuguese midfielder’s form during the early part of the new campaign. Santos has not consistently reproduced the level he reached last season, particularly in the CAF Champions League.

Cardoso said Santos’ situation should be considered within the wider circumstances affecting the Sundowns squad. He pointed to the transfer window as a source of uncertainty, explaining that movement in the market can affect players, relationships and the balance inside a team.

The coach believes the end of the transfer window provides greater certainty. Once the squad knows which players are available and how each person fits into the plans, Cardoso feels the group can establish clearer responsibilities and show stronger daily commitment.

Santos remains highly regarded by the coach because of his contribution in the Champions League group stage last season. Cardoso viewed those performances as evidence of the midfielder’s ability, rather than treating the player’s inconsistent opening spell as a reflection of his overall quality.

Cardoso also connected Santos’ best football with the atmosphere within the squad. He said players perform with more freedom when they are happy, and stressed the importance of rebuilding the energy and connections that help the team operate effectively.

Images of Sundowns players dancing, laughing and enjoying themselves in the dressing room were highlighted as signs of that togetherness. Cardoso wants those relationships to continue developing, believing that players who feel closely connected to one another are more willing to work and compete for the group.

The coach’s focus is therefore not limited to Santos’ individual performances. He sees the midfielder’s return to his strongest level as part of a broader process involving squad stability, stronger relationships and the continued growth of the team across its competitions.