Denis Onyango: Mamelodi Sundowns Boss Decries ‘Unfair Treatment’ of Uganda Cranes Veteran

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has voiced his regret over the limited playing time for veteran goalkeeper Denis Onyango, describing the situation as "unfair" for a player who has been a cornerstone of the club's success.

Cardoso's comments came after Sundowns secured a 2-1 victory against Golden Arrows in a Premier Soccer League match on Sunday. He explained why Onyango, a club icon, travelled with the team but was not included in the matchday squad.

The Portuguese tactician clarified that the team's protocol for away fixtures is to bring three goalkeepers as a precautionary measure. Ricardo Goss, recently returned from a loan spell, was named on the bench as the backup to club captain Ronwen Williams.

Onyango's role has diminished since the arrival of Williams from SuperSport United ahead of the 2022/23 season. However, his legendary status is undeniable. The Ugandan is one of only two current players, alongside Themba Zwane, to have won two CAF Champions League titles with the club.

The 41-year-old's decorated career with Sundowns boasts nine league titles, two Carling Knockout Cups, three Nedbank Cups, an MTN8 trophy, a CAF Super Cup, and the inaugural African Football League title. He has kept an impressive 138 clean sheets in 285 appearances for the club.

Cardoso elaborated on the difficult decisions he faces due to the squad's depth, particularly in the goalkeeping department.

"Denis was here with us; he was the third goalkeeper," Cardoso said as quoted by Sportswire. "When we travel out of Johannesburg, we travel with an extra player and an extra goalkeeper in case something bad happens."

"Last time, it was Reyaad Pieterse, because both of them are still at a level that makes me feel it is unfair. But I cannot change the rules of the game by putting more players on the bench."

The coach also suggested that South African football authorities should consider increasing the number of substitutes allowed on the bench, arguing it would give coaches more tactical flexibility and enhance the quality of the game.

"There are many tournaments that allow more players on the bench, and it should be something to discuss," he added. "Why not bring more players so that coaches can manage more options during the game? With that, I think the game would be better."

Despite the lack of minutes, Cardoso assured that the Uganda Cranes veteran remains a vital part of the club with a bright future ahead of him.

"Denis is at peace with us, and we are at peace with him. There are beautiful things ahead, for sure, in terms of the club," Cardoso affirmed. "We will embrace him continuously because he is a player who can perform on the pitch and perform every day in the training sessions."

The coach admitted the challenge of managing a squad with multiple top-tier goalkeepers, including two national team regulars.

"It is a hell of a job for me... having Denis Onyango and Reyaad, who are unbelievable," he confessed. "They show themselves at the best level I have ever seen since I came to the club. And he could be playing; I can confess to you. It is a tough one."