Veteran goalkeeper and former Uganda Cranes captain Denis Onyango has extended his stay at Mamelodi Sundowns, committing to another season and marking two decades in the South African Premier Soccer League (PSL).
Now 40, Onyango remains an integral part of the Sundowns squad, both on and off the pitch.
His decorated career includes 12 league titles, a CAF Champions League crown, CAF Super Cup, African Football League title, three Nedbank Cups, two Telkom Knockout trophies, and the MTN8.
Goalkeeper coach Kennedy Mweene, who is just five months older than Onyango, acknowledged the need for a tailored approach to the Ugandan’s training regime, considering his age.
“You must know how to train him, and as a result, there are some exercises that he doesn’t complete because we look at his body and what he needs,” Mweene said. “But he always pushes himself because I always encourage him to go on.”
Onyango is currently with the team in the United States for the FIFA Club World Cup.
Former teammate Hlompho Kekana, who played alongside Onyango for several seasons, praised the goalkeeper’s enduring influence.
“Onyango, what a professional. I admire his professionalism and leadership,” said Kekana. “He held the dressing room all by himself during my playing days because he is loud and has the personality to lead the younger ones. I admire how he handles himself with the younger players, the older players, and even the coaches.”
Kekana added that Onyango’s experience is invaluable for Sundowns.
“Now that he is in his 40s, he realises that he will be called upon whenever the team needs him. I love that he’s still around the team. You need that experience to show the younger ones how it is done at Mamelodi Sundowns.”
Onyango’s leadership and longevity continue to earn him respect across the South African football community, as he sets an example of professionalism and resilience in top-flight football.
