“It’s like I never left”: Kodisang thrilled with Portugal return

Kobamelo Kodisang is back in familiar territory, expressing pure joy at his return to Portugal after a disappointing stint with Mamelodi Sundowns last season.

The 25-year-old South African winger has put pen to paper on a one-year loan deal with Portuguese top-flight side AVS Futebol SAD, a move that includes an option for a permanent transfer.

Kodisang wasted no time getting back into the swing of things, having already joined training with his new club under coach Jose Mota since his official announcement on Thursday.

This return marks a fresh start for Kodisang. His time with PSL side Sundowns in South Africa saw limited action, with just 13 appearances, yielding two goals and two assists. Prior to joining Sundowns in July 2024, Kodisang had a more impactful two-season spell with another Portuguese club, Moreirense FC, where he scored 14 times and provided six assists in 67 matches.

Upon his unveiling at AVS Futebol SAD, the talented right-winger shared his enthusiasm. “It’s good to be here and back in Portugal. In fact, it’s as if I never left,” Kodisang stated. “I arrived at an excellent club, and now I’m going to try to give my best for AVS.”

He also acknowledged the competitive nature of the league, emphasising the collective effort required. “The championship is very competitive and not easy. We must always give our best, and we can’t predict match results or the final standings. We must give our all and try to finish as high as possible in the table.”

Kodisang reiterated his dedication to the team and the fans: “I’m someone who always tries to give my best, both in attack and defence. I don’t like to disappoint the fans. If they come to support and encourage us, we have to give our all for them. I can guarantee that I will give my all in every game.

“I hope that’s enough to make the fans happy. I’m a good professional. The most important thing is to always give my best. If I do, I help the team. If the team improves, we’re all happy. In a team, there is no ‘I,’ there’s a collective that has to work.”