Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has explained why Thembinkosi Lorch was loaned out to Wydad Casablanca. The 31-year-old attacker, who previously played under Rulani Mokwena at Sundowns, made the move to Morocco this past weekend after a difficult spell at Sundowns. Lorch had made just four league appearances this season before leaving for Wydad.
Cardoso emphasized the importance of player happiness and performance, stating that Lorch was not content at Sundowns. “It’s crucial that players are happy, and if they’re not in an environment where they can perform, it’s unsustainable,” Cardoso explained to iDiski Times.
The coach further explained that, as a more experienced player, Lorch needed more game time, which he wasn’t getting at Sundowns. “Sometimes, it’s important to give them the space they need to express themselves and play regularly,” he added.
Lorch joined Sundowns from Orlando Pirates last year, but his time with the club has been challenging, especially after Mokwena’s departure in July. Despite a decent start, Lorch struggled to make an impact and failed to score in his four league appearances. Reports also suggested that Sundowns’ Sporting Director, Flemming Berg, was not keen on adding Lorch to the squad, despite his prior success as PSL Footballer of the Year.