Agent confirms Thapelo Morena staying at Downs as option triggered

The Brazilians have been busy over the last few days finalising the futures of several out of contract players ahead of what coach Rulani Mokwena has claimed will not be a busy transfer window next month. 

Morena signed a five-year deal in June 2020 with the latter part of the agreement under then coach Pitso Mosimane split into a clause to only be triggered by Sundowns for a further two seasons.

The public broadcaster understands the reigning DStv Premiership champions have gone ahead and exercised it to retain Morena until 2025. 

“Thapelo will remain a Sundowns player. Yes, he has an option for a further two years and the club has illustrated how much they appreciate him. I have the utmost confidence that he will remain at the club for a few more years,” his agent, Basia Michaels, explained when contacted for comment.  

Morena joined Downs from the now-defunct Bloemfontein Celtic seven years ago and has since enjoyed an impressive trajectory in his career, including adding 14 Bafana Bafana appearances in this period. 

The move to Chloorkop has also come with major silverware, with Morena an integral part of the squads that have managed to win six consecutive league titles. 

Morena has also been used in various positions by Mosimane and now his successor coach Rulani Mokwena – from right back, wing as well as upfront in big CAF Champions League fixtures. 

Overall during the 2022/23 campaign, Morena featured in 37 games in all competitions, scoring six goals plus contributing eight assists – making it near impossible for the club not to trigger the option. 

Sundowns, meanwhile, have parted ways with midfielders Andile Jali, Haashim Domingo and Surprise Ralani, as well as striker Gift Motupa.