The future of Themba Zwane at Mamelodi Sundowns is still undecided, with the veteran midfielder expected to make a call on his next step in the coming weeks.
Affectionately known as Mshishi, Zwane is among the club’s longest-serving figures and continues to command immense respect within the squad assembled by head coach Miguel Cardoso. His importance to the dressing room goes beyond minutes on the pitch, with his leadership and experience remaining invaluable.
Notably, Zwane is now one of just two players — alongside goalkeeper Denis Onyango — still at the club from the legendary side coached by Pitso Mosimane that lifted Sundowns’ first-ever CAF Champions League title in 2016.
Across more than a decade in Chloorkop, Zwane has been the heartbeat of Masandawana’s midfield, adapting seamlessly to different systems and managers. His consistency and professionalism have made him one of the most trusted leaders in the club’s modern era.
After agreeing to a one-year extension at the start of the season, Zwane’s current deal runs until June, meaning he is now free to negotiate a pre-contract with other clubs under FIFA regulations. However, indications from those close to the player suggest that the 36-year-old is leaning towards staying put, potentially on another short-term agreement.
The 2025/26 campaign proved frustrating for Zwane, as injuries — including a serious Achilles problem — curtailed his involvement. While Cardoso has managed his minutes carefully since his return, Sundowns’ hierarchy reportedly remain convinced that Zwane still has plenty to offer and are keen to keep him in yellow.
Club chairman Tlhopie Motsepe recently hinted that discussions are underway to retain key senior figures whose contracts expire at the end of the season.
“Starting 2026 strongly will be a key objective for Themba Zwane and his teammates,” Motsepe wrote in the club’s official magazine.
“The Chairman, Sporting Director and Board are already working to ensure the right people and the right players are in place for a season driven by purpose and ambition.”
Sources further indicate that Zwane is neither contemplating retirement nor actively exploring a move elsewhere, with his immediate focus firmly on extending his stay at Sundowns. Since joining the club in 2011, following formative spells at M Tigers and Vardos FC — and a brief loan stint at Mpumalanga Black Aces — Zwane has built a legacy few can rival.
At international level, his influence has been equally significant. The creative midfielder has earned over 50 caps for Bafana Bafana, reaching the milestone in October 2024 during an AFCON qualifier against Congo, and playing a role in South Africa’s third-place finish at the 2023 tournament.
Despite questions about age and fitness, former Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Brian Baloyi believes Zwane should still be part of South Africa’s plans for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Baloyi argued that the current system lacks creativity without a natural number 10, adding that Zwane’s football intelligence could be decisive on the global stage. “You can’t say Themba is too old when other nations are taking players in their forties,” he said.
While Zwane still faces a demanding road to full match sharpness after successive injuries, Sundowns remain hopeful he can yet play a meaningful role as they chase another Premier Soccer League title, along with the Nedbank Cup and continental honours.
For now, Masandawana supporters wait — but all signs suggest that Mshishi’s story at Sundowns may not be finished just yet.