After leaving Orlando Pirates, Deano van Ruyen joined Tebogo Mokone at Mamalodi Sundowns to strengthen the squad at right-back following injuries to Zuko Mdunyelwa and Huliso Mudau.
Mamalodi Sundowns quickly reinforced its right flank by signing former Orlando Pirates defender Deano van Ruyen, due to the injury crisis in that position. Van Ruyen was officially presented by the Masandawana club on Sunday afternoon, shortly before the team defeated Golden Arrows 2-1 at King Zwelinatini Stadium.
The 'Brazilians' accelerated their search for this defender after starting right-back Huliso Mudau suffered a long-term Achilles tendon injury, and Zuko Mdunyelwa also faced health issues. Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso stated that van Ruyen had already been on the list of options after Mdunyelwa's problem, although he remains hopeful for Mudau's quick return.
Cardoso told the media after the match: 'I knew there were attempts to sign him (Deano van Ruyen), because immediately after Zuko (Mdunyelwa) was forced off the field in the previous match, a crisis arose, but today (Sunday) he was on the bench.' He continued: 'I didn't know the full extent of this injury – and I repeat, I trust my players, and I hope Mudau returns and perhaps surprises us by recovering faster. We have Tapelo Morena, we have Zuko, and now we have brought in Deano. Obviously, he came to help. He is an experienced player, and we will see what he gives us.'
Initially, Sundowns intended to acquire right-back Tabanga Matuludi from Polokwane City, but the Limpopo club allegedly declined offers for this high-caliber defender. This prompted the champions to look at van Ruyen, who brings significant top-flight experience in the Chulcrop league.
The 28-year-old footballer spent eight years in Stellenbosch, where he also captained the team for two seasons, before moving to Pirates in 2024. He played 51 matches for 'Buckaneers' before transferring to Sundowns. Cardoso now expects van Ruyen to adapt quickly and provide necessary squad depth while Sundowns manages a demanding schedule with key defenders on the injury list. For the team, this acquisition is aimed not so much at adding another big name, but at solving a sudden problem on the right flank.