Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Manqoba Mngqithi has provided clarification on the role of Wendell Robinson, who was listed as an assistant coach during the club’s Betway Premiership match against Sekhukhune United. The inclusion of Robinson in this capacity has raised eyebrows, especially given that he has primarily been known as a first-team goalkeeper coach at Sundowns.
Mngqithi explained that Robinson’s new designation as an assistant coach reflects the growing responsibility he has taken on within the technical team. According to the Sundowns coach, Robinson has increasingly been involved in tactical discussions and planning, contributing to more aspects of the team’s overall approach beyond just the goalkeeping duties.
“Wendell has been an integral part of our technical setup for some time now,” Mngqithi said. “His contributions are not limited to working with the goalkeepers; he has been a key figure in our tactical planning and analysis. This is a natural progression for him, as he has shown great understanding of the game and has earned the trust of the technical team.”
The decision to list Robinson as an assistant coach against Sekhukhune United is part of Sundowns’ broader approach to fostering versatility within their staff. Mngqithi further added that the technical team at Sundowns values the ability to work collectively and that Robinson’s new role is a recognition of his growing influence within the team.
“His work with the goalkeepers remains a priority, but we are also looking for coaches who can offer more in terms of the team’s overall tactical setup,” Mngqithi explained. “Wendell has stepped up in this regard, and we felt it was the right time to recognize his contributions.”
Robinson, who has been with Sundowns for several years, has built a strong reputation as a goalkeeper coach, particularly for his work with the club’s top goalkeepers, including Denis Onyango and Kennedy Mweene. His transition into a broader coaching role highlights his development as a coach and his increasing importance to the club’s success.
Mngqithi also emphasized that Sundowns’ success is driven by the collective effort of the entire technical team, and Robinson’s expanded role reflects the club’s commitment to growth and innovation in all areas of the team. With this new responsibility, Robinson will continue to be a vital part of Sundowns’ pursuit of both domestic and continental glory.
