Marcelo Allende embraces after Sundowns lose Betway Premiership crown

Marcelo Allende, 27, embraced after Mamelodi Sundowns were dethroned by Orlando Pirates in the Betway Premiership last season. The Chilean midfielder is now facing a new situation at the club after being part of a title-winning Sundowns squad since joining in July 2022.

The loss of the crown has placed Sundowns under pressure to regain their position at the top. Allende recognises that expectation, saying the club’s stature brings constant demands and that the squad must focus on each match while working to deliver results.

Allende has also indicated that the current campaign could be his final season with Sundowns. Despite that uncertainty, the attacking midfielder intends to remain fully committed whenever selected and to support the team when he is not involved. For him, the priority is helping the club achieve positive results.

Sundowns have added Antonio van Wyk and Siyanda Ndlovu, while Cassius Mailula has returned to the squad. Allende believes those arrivals can strengthen the team as it tries to respond to losing the league crown and deal with the increased competition this season.

The midfield has also been affected by the loss of Jayden Adams and an early injury to Teboho Mokoena. Allende described the opening period as difficult, but believes Sundowns have enough quality to cover the absences. His role has become more important as the club seeks a response after Pirates ended its title-winning run.

Allende joined Sundowns from Montevideo City Torque for €2.90 million in the 2022-23 season. He remains contracted to the Tshwane club, where his listed market value is €2.5 million, and is continuing to contribute as the team attempts to reclaim the Betway Premiership crown.