Mamelodi Sundowns coach Manqoba Mngqithi has, for the first time, addressed the departure of Gaston Sirino, insisting that he had no issues with the player.
The 33-year-old Uruguayan was released by the Tshwane giants at the end of last season after falling down the pecking order and has since signed a two-year deal with rivals Kaizer Chiefs.
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Sirino joined Sundowns in January 2018 from Club Bolivar and quickly became a key player under then-coach Pitso Mosimane. Over the years he formed a formidable partnership with club captain Themba Zwane, causing headaches for many PSL defenders.
"To be honest, I liked Gaston (Sirino) a lot. But in life we must allow for succession to take place. When you look at the players that we have signed now, we're trying to have (Siyabonga) Mabena also becoming a dominant feature in our team, (Thapelo) Maseko becoming a dominant feature in our team," Mngqithi told Marawa Sports Worldwide.
Mngqithi emphasized the importance of not stifling the growth of younger players, noting that Sirino's potential forward position is as a false nine, which did not fit into the team's current tactical setup.
"We've got Kutlwano (Letlhaku), we've got Lesiba Nku whose doing well. We've got (Kobamelo) Kodisang, we've got Lucas Ribeiro in these wide channels and Gaston cannot play as a nine. Maybe as a false nine he can play, but in a three-man midfield he is not going to be there," Mngqithi said.
The coach also praised Sirino's discipline and contributions but reiterated the need for succession planning.
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"So, we don't want to stifle the growth and development of youngsters. But the truth of the matter is he is still a very good player and discipline-wise.
"He is very disciplined but we must allow for the succession to take place and I think the players we signed are going to maybe prove whether it was the wrong decision to let him go or it was the right decision. But let's just wait and see," added the coach.
During his time at the Brazilians, Sirino was not short of silverware, winning six league titles, the MTN8, Nedbank Cup, Carling Black Label Cup, and the African Football League. His departure marks the end of an era, but Sundowns are looking forward to a new chapter with their emerging talents.
Sundowns are now focusing on integrating new talent such as Mabena, Letlhaku, Maseko and Kodisang.
