Sundowns And Lucas Ribeiro Head For Showdown After Shock Exit Post

Mamelodi Sundowns, South Africa’s serial champions, are preparing for a bitter legal battle after their star forward Lucas Ribeiro stunned supporters with a social media post announcing his departure from the club.

A Goodbye That Blindsided Chloorkop

On Monday night, Ribeiro posted an emotional farewell to his teammates on Instagram, telling fans his two-year journey at Chloorkop was over. For many, it read like the end of an era. But inside the Sundowns camp, the mood was anything but sentimental. Club insiders revealed the Brazilian has not been given clearance to leave, and management was left blindsided by his public statement.

Contract Disputes And FIFA Involvement

The 26-year-old, who has been pushing for a move since the FIFA Club World Cup in the USA, is believed to have attracted interest from Fluminense in Brazil and Qatar SC. Neither club, however, matched Sundowns’ asking price before the transfer window closed.

Frustrated, Ribeiro and his legal team took the matter to FIFA, claiming Sundowns’ demands were unreasonable and effectively blocked his transfer. His current deal reportedly still has a year to run, with the club holding the option to extend it for two more seasons a detail that strengthens Sundowns’ hand in the dispute.

Sundowns Weigh Their Next Move

For now, the Brazilians are keeping their cards close to their chest. Publicly, Sundowns have not commented on Ribeiro’s farewell, but sources suggest the club is considering its own legal action to enforce what they view as a binding contract.

From Hero To Headline

Ribeiro’s sudden exit drama overshadows what has been a remarkable chapter in his career. Crowned PSL Footballer of the Year in 2025, he scored 21 goals and delivered 14 assists in 51 appearances last season, cementing himself as one of the league’s most lethal forwards.

Whether he walks away to Brazil, the Gulf, or is forced to see out his deal in Tshwane, one thing is clear: this story has only just begun, and South African football fans will be watching closely.

Source:SABC Sport 

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