The chairperson of the Mamelodi Sundowns Namibia Supporters Club, Absalom ‘Appies’ Fillipus, says Peter Shalulile’s departure from Mamelodi Sundowns will not affect the long-term existence of the supporters’ branch.
Shalulile recently brought an end to his six-year stay at the South African champions after establishing himself as one of the club’s most prolific goal scorers and playing a key role in their domestic successes.
Speaking to Desert FM recently, Fillipus said Shalulile’s exit did not come as a surprise to the supporters’ leadership.
“For us, it was not really shocking. We had mentally prepared ourselves last season. We saw how the technical team was using him, so we knew this moment was coming. He did his part and broke records left, right and centre, not only for Sundowns but also in the PSL,” he said.
Despite Shalulile being the biggest link between Namibian supporters and the South African giants in recent years, Fillipus said the supporters’ club was established long before the striker joined Sundowns.
“You must know that the Namibian Sundowns supporters’ branch existed before Peter moved to Sundowns. Some of our members have supported the club since the 1980s, while I have supported Sundowns since Ronnie Kanalelo joined the club in 1998. The branch is not only here because of Peter’s presence,” he said.
He added that supporters would continue backing both Sundowns and Shalulile wherever his career takes him.
“We will continue flying the yellow flag high while also supporting Peter wherever he goes, although I hope it is not with one of Sundowns’ direct rivals,” Fillipus said.
Asked whether the club expects a drop in membership following the striker’s departure, Fillipus acknowledged that some supporters may lose interest but does not expect a significant decline.
“The possibility is there, but I would not bet on it too much, because we support the club and not individuals. Great players have come and gone before, and their supporters remained. We will continue strengthening the branch and recruiting new members,” he said.
Fillipus also admitted that many supporters were saddened by Shalulile’s departure, believing the striker still had more to offer at the highest level.
“Most of us are heartbroken. We wanted him to continue because he is still capable of playing at the highest level for another two seasons. After matches, we would wait for hours just to greet him, take pictures and show our appreciation,” he said.
Looking ahead, Fillipus said he would like to see Shalulile continue playing abroad rather than returning home immediately.
“My personal opinion is that he should continue playing. The Botswana and Zimbabwe leagues are improving, but I think clubs in Saudi Arabia or elsewhere in the Arab world, or even in North African countries such as Egypt, Algeria or Morocco, would suit his style and experience,” he said.
Shalulile leaves Mamelodi Sundowns as one of the most successful Namibian footballers to have played abroad, with supporters now awaiting confirmation of the next chapter in his career.
