Mngqithi Thrilled to Reconnect with Sundowns Stars in All Stars Showdown

Golden Arrows coach Manqoba Mngqithi was beaming with pride after reuniting with Arthur Sales and Marcelo Allende in the Carling All Stars team.

Mngqithi praised the duo’s development at Mamelodi Sundowns, recognizing them as some of the finest players in the PSL.

The former Sundowns mentor reunited with Sales and Allende during their match against Orlando Pirates at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday.

Despite a spirited performance in the first half, the fan-selected team faced a 2–0 defeat.

Mngqithi, now head coach of the Carling All Stars, had previously worked closely with both players during his tenure at Sundowns, where he served as both assistant and head coach.

Allende joined Sundowns at the beginning of the 2022/23 season from Montevideo City Torque, while Sales was acquired in the July 2024 off-season during Mngqithi’s management.

The Brazilian forward transitioned from Belgian club Lommel SK, where he netted 10 goals and provided two assists in 24 appearances.

Under Mngqithi’s guidance, Sales and Allende played pivotal roles in leading Sundowns to the Carling Knockout final last season, although they ultimately lost to Magesi FC.

Following his dismissal from Sundowns in December 2024, the Carling All Stars reunion brought joy to Mngqithi, who expressed admiration for the duo’s continued development as players.

“Those are the top players, and Marcelo is probably one of the best midfielders in the country,” Mngqithi remarked.

“I think many people don’t know that he’s one of the best midfielders in the country because he hardly spends time on the ball; he’s always where he’s supposed to be.

“I think the experience of working with him in particular will always tell you how good the boy is.

“As for Sales, I’ve always said that I don’t think he is a striker, but he is a very creative offensive player.

“In that position, he creates a lot of assists, he’s always painful to the opponents, and I was very excited to see them again, and we reconnected again because they’re my boys.”