Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Marcelo Allende is keeping a low profile regarding his future with the club, as his contract is set to expire at the end of the season. Allende expressed his happiness at being part of the team, which recently won the Fifa African-Asian-Pacific Cup by beating Al-Ahli 2-1 at Loftus Versfeld. This victory solidified Sundowns' position as one of the world's top teams and the continent's finest, being the reigning CAF Champions League winners.
The Chilean midfielder has been instrumental in Sundowns' success, showcasing his skills in the midfield by controlling the tempo of the game. His work rate has been complemented by Teboho Mokoena, providing balance to both defence and attack. Allende has not only achieved significant success but has also endeared himself to the team and the broader football fraternity with his humility and charisma, learning local culture and interpreting for his fellow South Americans who speak Spanish.
Sundowns' triumph in the second round of the Fifa Intercontinental Cup means they will face either the South American or North American champions in the Challenger Cup later this year. Should their opponent be a South American side, Allende will come up against a team from his home continent on the global stage – an opportunity he would cherish. Allende noted that he is excited to possibly play against them and is confident that Sundowns will do well.
A potential win in the Challenger Cup would earn Allende and Sundowns a historic clash against Paris Saint-Germain in the Fifa Intercontinental Cup final in December. Allende mentioned that the team is aware of the opportunity to play against PSG and that it is their dream to get there. He emphasized that they will need to fight and do what is required to achieve that dream as a collective going forward.
Allende's contributions to Sundowns have been significant, and his potential departure will be deeply felt within the club, the team, and South African football. The void left by the late Jayden Adams has been deeply felt, and Allende has been one of the players who has done his best to ensure that Sundowns remain competitive. Coach Miguel Cardoso dedicated the recent win to Adams, highlighting the impact of his loss.
When asked whether he considers himself a club legend, Allende remained humble, stating that he is happy to be at the club and that the team is grateful to everyone. He is focused on preparing for the next game and competition, staying coy about his future plans. Allende's performances have made him a valuable asset to Sundowns, and his future plans will be closely watched by fans and the football fraternity.
As Sundowns prepares for their next challenge, Allende's teammates and coaches are focused on achieving their goals, including a potential clash against PSG. The team's recent success and Allende's individual performances have generated excitement and anticipation for their upcoming matches. With his contract expiring soon, Allende's future plans will be a key talking point in the coming months.
Key points
- Marcelo Allende's contract with Mamelodi Sundowns is set to expire at the end of the season.
- Sundowns could face Paris Saint-Germain in the Fifa Intercontinental Cup final if they win the Challenger Cup.
- Allende has been instrumental in Sundowns' success, showcasing his skills in the midfield and endearing himself to the team and fans.
