With the expected signing of Stellenbosch FC striker Iqraam Rayners and Brazilian Arthur Sales, Mamelodi Sundowns now boast three outright strikers, including their proven club goalscorer Peter Shalulile from Namibia.
The pressing question is who will lead the line for the Brazilians this season and beyond. Former Sundowns midfielder Chancy Gondwe believes that while all three are talented, Shalulile remains the main striker for the team.
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In an exclusive interview with Soccer Laduma, the Malawian-based legend emphasized Shalulile's importance to the team.
"I think for me Peter(Shalulile) should be the first choice. He has proven throughout his stay at the team that you can depend on him. Of course, every day will not be the same. He will also be off at times but his scoring record is proven to be good," Gondwe told the Siya crew.
"But with Sales we have too see what he is capable of doing first before we can say whether he should start ahead of Rayners or not. For Rayners he can play together with Shalulile. They have different qualities and can contribute differently at the same time," Gondwe believes.
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Gondwe also suggested that depending on the system the coach employs, all three strikers could be used simultaneously too.
"You remember when Liverpool had (Sadio) Mane, (Mohamed) Salah and (Roberto) Firmino and they were all playing at the same time and were very dangerous? Sundowns can do the same and give opposition defenders a tough time. I think if the coach feels he can work on them as a forward three then that could also work for the team. But Shalulile should be the first choice if they want to start with one striker up front," Gondwe concluded.
As Sundowns prepare for the new season, the tactical decisions regarding their forward line will be crucial. With Shalulile's proven track record and the potential of Rayners and Sales, the team has a wealth of options to explore.
