After Themba Zwane's operation on Friday, Mamelodi Sundowns coach Manqoba Mngqithi has given an update on how long they expect their captain to be out on the sidelines.
Zwane's Achilles, as confirmed by Mngqithi, has been raptured, an injury he sustained while serving the country in national team colours against Congo in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
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The 35-year-old is expected to be out for no less than four months, but this could give some of the other players in the team a chance to impress Mngqithi and show that there is no reason to worry about a future without Zwane in a few years' time.
"Themba Zwane was a complete rapture in the Achilles. The operation took place yesterday (Friday) and it was successful. We are hoping in four to six months he will be back," Mngqithi told media after Sundowns' 5-0 victory over Golden Arrows in the Carling Knockout last 16 at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Saturday evening.
"We are very optimistic because he is generally a very fit player and he comes back quicker than normal. We know his level of professionalism is second to none, so we know that he will work very hard to get himself back as quickly as possible."
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This is a crucial season for Zwane, who had the option in his contract exercised by one year. It expires at the end of the season and the player would not doubt want to make a return early in 2025 to make an impact on the pitch, to enhance his chances of securing a new deal.
