‘Let’s go for more’: Sundowns coach on global award nod

Mamelodi Sundowns’ head coach Miguel Cardoso has expressed his delight and dedication following his nomination for the 2025 IFFHS Club Coach of the Year award, framing the recognition as a team achievement and a springboard for future success.

The Portuguese tactician’s inclusion on the prestigious list, compiled by the International Federation of Football History and Statistics (IFFHS), places him alongside world-renowned figures such as Barcelona’s Hansi Flick, Arsenal’s Mikel Arteta, and Real Madrid’s Xabi Alonso.

Cardoso is one of only two coaches from an African club to be nominated, the other being Pyramids FC’s Krunoslav Jurcic, highlighting the global acknowledgement of the Brazilians’ dominant run.

Sundowns Coach Cardoso’s Reaction

⭐ 𝗜𝗙𝗙𝗛𝗦 𝗖𝗟𝗨𝗕 𝗖𝗢𝗔𝗖𝗛 𝗢𝗙 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗬𝗘𝗔𝗥 𝗡𝗢𝗠𝗜𝗡𝗘𝗘 ⭐

Another proud moment for the Yellow Nation as Coach Miguel Cardoso earns a nomination for the IFFHS Club Coach of the Year! 💛👏

He joins a world-class group of nominees including Antonio Conte, Diego… pic.twitter.com/uzZm5BWeUH

— Mamelodi Sundowns FC (@Masandawana) November 7, 2025

Responding to the significant nomination, Cardoso didn’t shy away from celebrating the club’s achievements over the past year.

“I am delighted to have been nominated for the 2025 Club Coach of the Year award by the IFFHS,” he stated. “Recognition for a fantastic year at FC Mamelodi Sundowns, where we accumulated victories, excellent performances, trophies, records, and prestige.”

Crucially, he attributed the accolade to the collective effort at Chloorkop.

“It will always be a testament to the work of my players, coaches, and the structure I belong to. A special kiss to my family. Thank you all. Let’s go for more.”

The Pressure for More Trophies

The nomination lands as Cardoso navigates the most crucial phase of the season, with Sundowns still in contention for a domestic treble. The coach now faces increased scrutiny to deliver on the expectations that come with being named among the world’s elite.

The League: Protecting Sundowns’ run of eight consecutive league titles remains non-negotiable. Failing to secure the Betway Premiership would mark a major upset and a significant blow to Cardoso’s reputation.

Continental Ambition: The CAF Champions League remains the club’s ‘top priority’, a competition that has long eluded them despite their dominance and the one that secured their ticket to the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.

The Cup: While a miss in the Nedbank Cup might be forgivable, the pursuit of the treble—and the desire to cement their status—will see the club push hard on all fronts, driven by the philosophy encapsulated in Cardoso’s own rallying cry: “Let’s go for more.”