Mokwena: Maseko is an incredible investment from two aspects

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  • Post published:August 1, 2023

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena says he has a “bit of work” to do in terms of defining the versatile Thapelo Maseko’s role at the club.

The 20-year-old had a stellar season with SuperSport in which he featured 25 times across all competitions while contributing to six goals, including four goals and two assists.

His performance under Gavin Hunt did not go unnoticed as he caught the eye of South Africa coach Hugo Broos and subsequently received a call-up to the Bafana Bafana squad.

Maseko has now become the Brazilians fourth signing behind Lesiba Nku from Marumo Gallants, Junior Mendieta from Stellenbosch FC, and Lucas Ribeiro Costa from Belgian outfit SK Beveren.

Mokwena insists he is not concerned over where Maseko will fit into the squad as he is versatile enough to play in any role.

“Thapelo is still very undefined from a personality, from responsibility and performance on the pitch. And as soon as we can get better, I think we can then start profiling him in relation to the responsibilities, and the roles we would like for him,” Mokwena told Sundowns media.

“And then that moves them a little bit closer into which positions, which I see he can play, maybe left-back, left midfield, left wing, maybe even left striker, and maybe even right wing. So, we have a bit of work in that space to try to still define him.

“Thapelo is an incredible investment from two aspects. His age gives us the possibility to invest for the long term. At this moment last season, one of the best young players in the country and was shortlisted in that space with Cassius Mailula.

“He also gives us very good qualities, from that other aspect, from a technical perspective, where he’s still very undefined. He’s got very good weapons, speed, skill, and also a very good engine with the capacity to dominate the line. We saw it a lot at SuperSport last season.”