Lucas Ribeiro Dispute Nearing Resolution as Sundowns Consider Walking Away

SportsBoom has learned that Mamelodi Sundowns could be looking to move on from the controversy associated with former forward Lucas Ribeiro, a feat that could see the talented Brazilian continue his career without constantly having to look over his shoulder.

The Ribeiro Case

About a year ago, in the Mamelodi Sundowns colours, Lucas Ribeiro scored a screamer against Borussia Dortmund in the FIFA Club World Cup, a goal that was later voted the goal of the tournament.

Having impressed in the showpiece event with the whole world watching, interest from clubs overseas grew, with the player eventually being linked with Qatar SC and Brazilian club Fluminense.

The forward would go on to agree personal terms with Qatar SC, but the clubs could not agree on a transfer fee. 

His legal team would go on to allege that Mamelodi Sundowns demanded a fee well above his market value.

Shortly after, Ribeiro would go on to put out an emotional statement, citing that he had terminated his contract with the Tshwane-based Sundowns, despite having at least three years left on his contract.

Ribeiro and his legal team argued "just cause" to terminate his contract with Sundowns, a feat that heavily relied on the principles established by the Lassana Diarra ruling.

Sundowns disputed his position, maintaining that his contract remained valid and reserving their right to seek compensation. 

The two parties battled it out in the FIFA Football Tribunal, with Ribeiro eventually being handed the International Transfer Certificate, which he used to make his move to Spanish club, Cultural Deportiva Leonesa.

Despite his transfer, the legal dispute continued separately. 

Moreover, the forward found himself in hot water with his new team being relegated to a lower league in Spain, and him having had a rather mediocre season, scoring six goals and registering only two assists in 32 appearances.

With Cultural Deportiva Leonesa relegated, Ribeiro is now a free agent, having signed only for one season with the Spanish club. 

North African teams have reportedly said to have shown interest, but are wary of the ongoing dispute with Sundowns, a feat that could see them having to pay a fee to Sundowns should Ribeiro lose the legal battle.

Ribeiro has even been linked with a shock return to South African football, with Kaizer Chiefs reportedly interested, while veteran coach Roger De Sá believes a move to Naturena would be an ideal fit for both the player and the club.

Rumour

SportsBoom has learned from sources that Mamelodi Sundowns could be looking to move on from the controversy. 

After all, Sundowns are the current African champions, having won the 2025/26 CAF Champions League spectacularly a few months ago.

With the 2026/27 season only weeks away, Mamelodi Sundowns have their sights set on defending their African crown and will be looking to reassert their dominance in South African football, having slipped in the domestic league last season, with Orlando Pirates taking the crown on the last day of the season.

As a result, Ribeiro will likely also move forward with his career and look to reach his full potential elsewhere.