Flemming Berg arrived at Mamelodi Sundowns in June 2022 with a glittering CV and a clear mandate: revolutionise development, implement a global football methodology, and turn Sundowns into continental kings.
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Three years later, while domestic success continues, pressure is mounting on the club’s Sporting Director after another painful CAF Champions League failure.
Despite Sundowns reaching their first final since 2016, the loss to Pyramids FC has led to increased questions about Berg’s decision-making behind the scenes.
Siya Sources have suggested his influence was pivotal in the departures of coaches Rulani Mokwena and Manqoba Mngqithi, as well as the appointment of Miguel Cardoso. While the Portuguese coach showed promise by winning the league and reaching the final, his inability to secure the trophy has now put both him and Berg in the spotlight.
Berg has overseen an aggressive transfer strategy, spending heavily on talents like Marcelo Allende, Matías Esquivel, and Arthur Sales. Some signings have impressed, notably Ronwen Williams and Lucas Ribeiro, but others have struggled, leading to concerns about the return on investment.
At academy level, progress has also been mixed. Berg's decision to reduce the average age of the DDC squad was bold, but the side has failed to win the title in three consecutive seasons. While a few players have broken into the senior team, the pathway he was tasked with creating still appears incomplete.
While Sundowns remain dominant domestically, and Berg’s international vision has expanded the club’s reach, his long-term project is now under greater scrutiny.
With expectations higher than ever and the Club World Cup looming, Berg may soon have to step out of the shadows and be judged not just on philosophy, but on results.
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Readers can discover more on this topic in the Siya Special on the 5 June edition of Soccer Laduma.
