Miguel Cardoso Makes Emotional Appeal to Fans Amid Mamelodi Sundowns Pressure: 'One Day I Will Go'

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has spoken out about facing unprofessional behaviour from some supporters following the team’s 2-1 Nedbank Cup win over Gomora United.

Miguel Cardoso has been under sustained pressure in recent months, with former coach Pitso Mosimane repeatedly linked to his position, a move many fans have openly supported.

Mamelodi Sundowns’ struggles in the CAF Champions League against Al Hilal, including a 2-2 home draw and a 2-1 away defeat, have further intensified the scrutiny.

PAY ATTENTION: Follow us on Google News, Stay informed with Latest Sport News

As a result, Miguel Cardoso has been left with little respite, repeatedly forced to address the criticism surrounding his tenure.

Miguel Cardoso revealed that he was deeply disappointed by what he described as personal and inappropriate remarks directed at him, explaining that comments targeting trivial or private matters crossed a line and undermined basic human dignity.

The Mamelodi Sundowns coach stressed that such behaviour reflected a broader problem with how criticism is expressed, noting that he had arrived in a country he admired for its strong principles and values, which made the situation even more troubling.

Cardoso added that public discourse should remain professional, arguing that mocking a coach’s appearance or conduct outside football matters was unacceptable.

Miguel Cardoso pointed out that his career did not happen by chance, reminding critics that he had led teams to levels few believed possible in South African football. He called for patience and mutual respect, saying there was no need to force anyone out, as time would take its course if everyone allowed the work to continue calmly.

“Of course, when people make jokes about the colour of the car of the coach, and there's no respect for the integrity of a human being like me, there are a lot of wrong things in this country. And it's important to settle those things. Because a few years ago, you had someone very important in this country who bought some idea about how to relate,” Miguel Cardoso said.

“And I found a country that is fantastic in terms of values. I don't think it's proper to joke about the coach's car or the way the coach got out of a press conference. And that is what is missing, is look at the coach and say, oh, respect, this guy didn't fall from the sky.

“This guy coached teams that no one ever imagined in South Africa. But just show some respect and that's it. One day I will go. No, no one needs to push anyone. Just need to take it calmly and let ourselves work.”

Miguel Cardoso said the players and the club deserved far greater appreciation, describing the institution as one of stature and influence, built on the efforts of dedicated and highly respected individuals working behind the scenes.

He emphasised that there was unity within the club, adding that everyone was aligned and committed to the same objectives.

Miguel Cardoso went on to explain that pressure and scrutiny are an unavoidable part of football at the highest level, drawing comparisons with top managers abroad who regularly face criticism and tough questioning despite their success.

Cardoso noted that challenges are part of the game’s nature, but maintained that only those with strength and resilience are able to overcome difficult periods, adapt quickly and ultimately emerge stronger.

“These players deserve a lot of respect. This club deserves a lot of respect. It's a huge club with huge people. This club is so strong and is highly respected by the people inside because we have fantastic people inside the club,” he added.

“And we are together on that. We are together. But look, football is exactly like that. You go to see... You go to England. Pep Guardiola, 10 years coach of Manchester City. Do you think he goes through the seasons without problems, without questions?

“He watches press conferences, one after the other, and you see him fighting and struggling. But football is like that. It turns around very quickly, but it just turns around for the strong ones. The weaker ones don't turn the chess table, but the strong ones turn it around. And that's it.”