Mamelodi Sundowns Training Complex
Mamelodi Sundowns’ training complex, situated in Chloorkop near Johannesburg, embodies a blend of sophistication and tradition. This fortified space is cloaked behind tall yellow-painted stone walls, sheltering two villas focused on football operations and administrative tasks. Despite the necessary amenities for players and staff, the facilities remain rudimentary by modern standards with pitches for both men’s and women’s teams.
“To play fast, you need good pitches,” asserts Flemming Berg, the club’s director of football, emphasizing the urgent need for better playing surfaces for enhanced performance.
Investment and Development
Since billionaire Patrice Motsepe took control of Sundowns in 2003, his investment has focused on nurturing talent and building infrastructure. This vision is on the verge of reaching new heights as Sundowns prepares to represent African football at the FIFA Club World Cup in the U.S. Berg is optimistic that their development now aligns with some of Europe’s leading clubs.
Organizational Structure
Since relocating to South Africa in 2022 from his role as technical director at the Danish Football Association, Berg has become integral to Sundowns’ operations, overseeing seven departments. He works closely with Tlhopie Motsepe, the club’s chairman, employing a holistic structure modeled after central European practices and encouraging autonomy among department heads. Berg formulates both short- and medium-term objectives while the board focuses on long-term aspirations.
Player Recruitment Strategy
Berg’s role in player recruitment is critical and often scrutinized. He scouts local talent through a network of scouts focusing on youth players, capitalizing on the abundant prospects in South Africa. Internationally, Berg prefers data analytics over extensive scouting networks, utilizing online systems and personal connections to facilitate transactions.
Currently, Sundowns’ roster includes five South American players, with each recruitment effort tailored to the individual. Berg’s assistant, Ryan Hunt, plays a crucial role in conducting data evaluations early in the recruitment phases, while Berg collaborates with the coaching team to project future transfer needs.
Berg identified Lucas Ribeiro, a Brazilian forward who became the league’s top scorer in the 2024 season finale, after discovering him in Belgium. His meticulous approach to recruitment ensures every acquisition proposal receives board approval before negotiations begin.
Addressing Concerns About Relocation
Despite apprehensions regarding relocation to South Africa, Berg finds that players are generally receptive to the club’s ethos. However, some prospects still hesitate; for instance, one potential signee turned down Sundowns upon realizing their national coach might not support him from a distance. Berg excels in painting a vivid picture of the lifestyle and professional opportunities available, including the benefits of living in upscale areas near Johannesburg while competing at a high level.
Head Coach Recruitment
Navigating the complexities of hiring a head coach, Berg utilized a specialized recruitment agency to appoint Miguel Cardoso, ensuring the selection process was free from external player influences. Cardoso’s past success, including defeating Sundowns in the CAF Champions League, reinforced his candidacy. Berg praises Cardoso’s tactical focus on defense, which aligns with Sundowns’ ambitions for continental dominance.
“Everybody except our fans is tired of Sundowns’ dominance,” adds Berg, acknowledging the high expectations placed upon the club.
