Not only has Mamelodi Sundowns captain Hlompho Kekana seen a big drop in his game-time, his market value has also plummeted over the last two seasons, losing out on around ±R5m.
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The 2021 season is the one in which the Zebediele-born midfielder made the least appearances since turning professional with Black Leopards during the 2006/7 campaign!
Kekana’s influence since joining Sundowns in the 2011/12 season has been evident for all to see and the veteran midfielder has helped guide the Brazilians to a trophy-laden decade in which he enjoyed regular game-time at the club.
According to the figures on Transfermarkt.com, since joining Sundowns in 2011, Kekana’s market value rose from €225k (±R3.9m), to €700k (±R12.3m), where it peaked until the end of the 2018/19 season.
However, this season, new arrivals in the Brazilians’ camp has meant less playing time for the midfielder who has made an uncharacteristic 10 appearances in all competitions under coaches Manqoba Mngqithi, Rulani Mokwena and Steve Komphela. Consequently, the player has seen a big drop in his market value and is now worth €400k (±R7m).
Questions have been asked surrounding the role of the 35-year-old, who according to Mnqithi, is still the club captain, despite his lack of match appearances.
With Themba Zwane, Rivaldo Coetzee and Andile Jali seemingly the preferred midfield trio for Sundowns’ three wise men this campaign, it remains to be seen what Kekana’s future role at the Chloorkop outfit could be, especially with Kekana having penned a new four-and-a-half year deal in March last year.
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View the players offloaded by Sundowns: