Mosa Lebusa leaves Sundowns as Stellenbosch FC move looms

Mamelodi Sundowns have officially confirmed the departure of long-serving defender Mosa Lebusa, bringing an end to a trophy-laden seven-year spell at Chloorkop with Stellenbosch FC said to be his next club.

The 33-year-old center-back leaves the reigning Betway Premiership champions as one of the most decorated players in the club’s modern history. Since joining from Ajax Cape Town (now Cape Town Spurs) in 2018, Lebusa has been a pillar of the “Masandawana” defense, racking up 207 appearances and an incredible 11 trophies.

Sundowns released a heartfelt statement on Saturday, January 17, celebrating the “Yellow Nation” stalwart: “After seven incredible years, seven league titles, 207 appearances, nine goals and four assists, the Yellow Nation salutes and celebrates Mosa Lebusa. Masandawana wish you the best as you begin the next chapter of your journey.”

𝗧𝗛𝗔𝗡𝗞 𝗬𝗢𝗨, 𝗠𝗢𝗦𝗔 👆💛

After 7️⃣ incredible years, 7️⃣ league titles, 2️⃣0️⃣7️⃣ appearances, 9️⃣ goals and 4️⃣ assists, the Yellow Nation salutes and celebrates Mosa Lebusa 💛

Masandawana wish you the best as you begin the next chapter of your journey 🙌#Sundowns… pic.twitter.com/mAQhVXt9hZ

— Mamelodi Sundowns FC (@Masandawana) January 17, 2026

Why Lebusa Is Moving On From Sundowns

While Lebusa remained a respected leader in the dressing room, his game time took a hit in the 2025/26 campaign. Under head coach Miguel Cardoso, the veteran slipped down the pecking order following the arrival of 21-year-old sensation Khulumani Ndamane from TS Galaxy. With only nine appearances across all competitions this season, Lebusa reportedly reached a mutual agreement to terminate his contract early to seek regular football.

The departure has all but confirmed reports linking Lebusa with a move to Stellenbosch FC. The ‘Maroons’ are currently in a transition phase under veteran coach Gavin Hunt, who took over from Steve Barker in December 2024.

Stellies have struggled recently, languishing in 14th place on the table, and Hunt has been vocal about the need for experienced reinforcements. Adding a player of Lebusa’s pedigree—who boasts extensive CAF Champions League experience—would provide much-needed leadership for a youthful Stellenbosch backline currently battling to avoid the relegation zone.

If the deal is finalized this weekend, Lebusa could be eligible to debut as early as Tuesday when Stellenbosch travels to face Sekhukhune United at the Peter Mokaba Stadium.