“I’m still here” – Sundowns keeper Onyango clears air on retirement talk

Photo from Denis Onyango X.

Ugandan goalkeeper Denis Onyango has poured cold water on retirement rumors, affirming his intention to continue playing club football beyond this season.

The 40-year-old Mamelodi Sundowns shot-stopper, who retired from international football in 2021, insists he's not ready to hang up his gloves just yet.

“To be honest, I’m still here,” Onyango said while speaking to Mamelodi Sundowns media after their latest league triumph. “The body will speak to me eventually, but I can confidently say I’ll be at Mamelodi Sundowns for at least another season.”

His comments come after Sundowns secured the Betway Premier Soccer League title, a feat that saw Onyango underline his desire to chase yet another milestone. “We should go for the 13th title. Yeah, I’m still playing,” he declared with a smile, referencing his quest to extend his record of 12 league titles – the most by any player in PSL history.

While his current one-year contract is nearing its end, Onyango’s passion and confidence suggest a contract renewal is likely. “Of course, the club has to speak to me, but I’m still playing, and I believe I still have the energy to support the boys,” he added.

Though he now plays a secondary role behind Bafana Bafana captain Ronwen Williams, Onyango continues to make impactful contributions whenever called upon, offering leadership, experience, and reliability between the posts.

Beyond domestic dominance, Mamelodi Sundowns and Onyango have continental ambitions as well. The South African giants are preparing for a highly anticipated CAF Champions League final against Egyptian outfit Pyramids, with the first leg scheduled for Saturday in South Africa.

Onyango was instrumental in Sundowns’ last continental triumph in 2016, and even if not the starting man this time, his presence remains a source of motivation and belief in the dressing room. For now, the legendary goalkeeper’s message is clear, he’s far from done.