After seeing very little action since joining Mamelodi Sundowns from Orlando Pirates, Deano van Rooyen's future with the club is starting to look bleak. Should his infrequent playing time persist, the defender may have to reevaluate his status at Chloorkop.

Van Rooyen came to Sundowns hoping to make a name for himself on the team. Things have not worked out as planned, though, because he is struggling to get regular playing time due to the high level of competition for spots in his position.

The situation has cast doubt on his future prospects, especially considering the defender's need for regular playing time to keep his form and continue developing.

Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has explained why some players have had trouble getting opportunities by recognizing the fierce competition within the squad.

As far as Cardoso is concerned, there is intense rivalry for the starting spot at the defensive position.

You might expect that there is a lot of competition for that job. Additionally, Zuko [Mdunyelwa] is present. As soon as he arrived, Thabang became an integral part of the squad. "Obviously, when we brought one and the other, we didn't know what things were going to be like," Cardoso explained.

The selection process became more complicated when Thabang swiftly adjusted to the team's style of play, as acknowledged by the Portuguese coach.

"Certainly, Thabang picked up the pace rather rapidly; the thing is, we have no idea what the next moment holds," he chimed in.

According to Cardoso, Van Rooyen's limited playing time is due in part to the intense rivalry among the team's players, not to a lack of talent.

On the other hand, Sundowns are juggling Khuliso Mudau's injury situation. He injured his Achilles tendon in August and is now in the last stages of rehabilitation.

The technical staff may have an additional option at right back with Mudau's return, which could make the competition for spots even more intense.

So, how Van Rooyen's situation evolves at Chloorkop might be decided in the next weeks. After leaving Orlando Pirates for a fresh opportunity, the defender will be itching to show his worth with more playing time.

Even though Sundowns has not officially said anything about his impending departure, he may start to consider his options due to his inconsistent playing time.

At the moment, the defender needs to focus on making an impression on the coaching staff so that he can compete for a starting position.

Source: https://www.facebook.com/100064555429593/posts/1558651246296708/?app=fbl