Mamelodi Sundowns have set their sights on regaining the Caf Champions League and have made some big moves to make sure they have the squad depth to win it, writes Dean Workman.

Competing with the likes of Al Ahly, Zamalek, Esperance, Wydad and others on an annual basis is new for a South African club. Orlando Pirates have won the competition and Kaizer Chiefs famously made the final in 2020, but no other South African side has consistently competed at the top end of Africa’s biggest competition as effectively as Downs have in recent seasons.

A big factor is their financial might, which gives them the pick of the best local talent. This was showcased by the signing of Tebogo Mokwena, but it also gives the club access to a pool of players from abroad which can help lift their standards.

Gaston Sirino showed what an impact an effective overseas player can make and Masadawana will be hoping their latest South American recruit, Erwin Saavedra, can show his worth and help fire them to Champions League glory.

Speaking after the January transfer window, Sundowns co-head coach Manqoba Mngqithi admitted the January acquisitions were made specifically with the Champions League in mind. ‘We are looking at our competitors in the Champions League and we are trying to get to that level; to make sure we are at a stage we compete at almost the same level with them,’ he said.

‘One mentality is to win the Champions League and all these seasons our plan was always to fight to win it. That’s why we are always fighting to be in the Champions League every year. Signings are always influenced by us trying to be better than what we were the previous year. We are hoping we will get there.’

The big-money signing of Saavedra caught the eye of many across the continent, with the Bolivian international coming into the side off the back of stand-out performances in the South American Fifa World Cup qualifiers.

The 26-year-old is a versatile player who has featured mainly as a right wing or attacking midfielder but has also played as a right back and holding midfielder. Downs will most likely use him in an attacking role, though, because he possesses flair that can unlock defences.

Saavedra is also a leader, highlighted by his captaincy at former club Bolivar, where he helped them win four trophies. He has also developed into a senior figure in his national team, despite his young age. Encouragingly, the new Downs signing has also improved his final product over the last couple of years and has been scoring more goals.

He is now ready to take the next step and prove himself abroad. ‘I looked for this opportunity for a long time, happy and grateful to the people who noticed my football. I am more mature to leave the country,’ he told Bolivian website Futbolistasbol.

‘I feel like leaving the country to show my football in another country. It is very difficult for Bolivian players to be valued in other countries, this is a motivation for me, I hope it goes very well,’ he added.

Fast Facts
Full Name: Erwin Mario Saavedra Flores
Date of Birth: 22 February 1996
Place of Birth: Oruro, Bolivia
Height: 1.73m
Position: Wing
Number: 26