It is now reported that a former Mamelodi Sundowns star declined a January transfer to Europe in order to play at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup later this year.
The much-anticipated Club World Cup is just four months away, with some teams having taken that into consideration when conducting their business in the recent January transfer window.
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According to reports, Sundowns' new signing, Lucas Suarez, joined the club on loan with the hope of playing at the Club World Cup.
Moreover, former Real Madrid star James Rodríguez signed a one-year deal with Mexican outfit Club León to also feature in the tournament later this year.
Now, according to Arabic news outlet WinWin, ex-Sundowns player Abdelmounaim Boutouil also passed up an opportunity to move to Europe so that he could play at the Club World Cup with his current team, Wydad Athletic Club.
The report claims that Boutouil was presented with an offer from Russian side Sochi this January, but the defender turned it down to remain in Morocco.
It is also said that Boutouil's strong relationship with Wydad boss Rulani Mokwena played a significant role in his decision, having previously played under the South African tactician at Sundowns as well.
The 27-year-old only joined Wydad from Sundowns in August 2024 on a free transfer and has since made 11 appearances so far, according to Transfermarkt.
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By Lukhanyo Mtuta
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