Ribeiro gives update on his future ahead of Sundowns’ MTN8 clash

Fresh from a season where he dominated the individual awards, Mamelodi Sundowns’ key player, Lucas Ribeiro Costa, has given an update on his future as the team gears up for their MTN8 quarter-final against Richards Bay FC this Sunday.

Ribeiro was the standout performer at the 2024/25 season awards, bagging the Betway Premiership Goal of the Season, Player’s Player of the Season, Betway Premiership Top Goal Scorer, and the prestigious Footballer of the Season award. His crucial contributions were instrumental in Masandawana securing their eighth consecutive league title and reaching the CAF Champions League final.

The Brazilian also made his mark on the global stage, winning the Goal of the Tournament at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.

Ribeiro’s exceptional form has naturally attracted significant interest from abroad. Last week, the forward, who scored 21 goals last season, had requested to leave the Sundowns camp in Rustenburg amid reports of talks with Brazilian club Fluminense. He has also been linked with Qatari SC of Qatar.

However, the talented attacker has now returned to training with the Brazilians. “Training today [Thursday] was good, I’m very happy, I’m back for training for my team. I’m very happy with the training,” Ribeiro confirmed.

Ribeiro Reflects on Success and Calls for Fan Support

Reflecting on his remarkable season, Ribeiro expressed gratitude to his teammates and the club. “It’s been a very good season. The team played well, and it wasn’t an easy season because we played many games, but I am very happy to have won individual trophies,” he stated.

“I don’t play alone; I owe this to my teammates, the club Mamelodi Sundowns, the supporters, and the coach. The coach put my level very high, and I am very happy.”

Looking ahead to Sunday’s MTN8 encounter, Ribeiro urged the Mamelodi Sundowns faithful to come out in full force. “It’s a very important game; the supporters must give everything, push the guys on the pitch. It’s very important. It’ll be a good game on Sunday.”