Mailula is currently on loan at KV Kortrijk from Major League Soccer side Toronto FC, with the Belgian outfit having just secured promotion to the top flight.

However, it is yet unclear whether Kortrijk will exercise their option to sign the striker permanently at the end of the season.

The 24-year-old has endured a challenging spell in Europe, featuring sporadically since his arrival but remains highly regarded for his potential.

Mailula initially moved abroad after Toronto signed him from Mamelodi Sundowns in a deal reportedly worth around R30 million in July 2023.

After a mixed debut season in the MLS, he was sent out on loan to gain further experience – first to Wydad Athletic Club, where he reunited with coach Rulani Mokwena and also featured in the FIFA Club World Cup last year, and then to the Belgian second tier.

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His agent, Karabo Tshabuse of P Management, has confirmed that discussions over Mailula’s future are still pending.

“The two clubs are still to review, given that the loan deal only ends at the end of the season,” is all she could say when asked for comment.

This suggests all parties, including Toronto, will only engage in formal talks during the FIFA World Cup break in June, when a decision will be made on whether he stays in the US or return to Europe.

Former Sundowns striker and now SABC Sport analyst Katlego Mashego believes staying in Europe would be the best move for Mailula’s development.

“For his growth, he needs to stay in Europe. Belgium is a league where talent is produced quickly, and if he stays there, he could become one of the best players," opines 'Mahoota'. "He should stay, learn, and grow, and then make a bigger move to another top European league."

With Kortrijk’s promotion opening new possibilities, Mailula’s next step could prove pivotal in shaping the trajectory of his career.

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