Why Leon chose Mamelodi Sundowns amid title and Champions League chase

Mamelodi Sundowns’ latest signing Brayan Leon has revealed that the challenge of success and silverware played a decisive role in his move to Chloorkop, as the Brazilians look to revive their 2025/26 campaign.

The 25-year-old striker was confirmed as a Sundowns player on Monday after completing a move from Colombian side Independiente Medellin, understood to be a two-year deal.

Leon’s arrival comes as Masandawana prepare for the second half of the season, with pressure mounting in both domestic and continental competitions.

The move follows reports that Sundowns secured the Colombian for a fee in the region of R58 million, with Leon having already bid an emotional farewell to Medellin last week as he prepared for the next chapter of his career.

“A huge thank you to Independiente Medellin for opening the doors to this beautiful institution and helping me grow on this path,” said Leon.

“To all those good people I met here, I’m grateful for the good and the not-so-good that happened. I wish them the best always.”

The transfer marks Leon’s first experience outside Colombia, having played professional football exclusively in his home country since 2021. 

He now faces the challenge of adapting to a new football culture, the demands of the Betway Premiership, and the intensity of the CAF Champions League.

At his unveiling, Leon made it clear why Sundowns stood out.

“I chose Sundowns because of the new challenges, and I think this is the best team, the most successful,” said Leon.

“It’s always great to have these new challenges and to be a champion here. I really hope to return the favour. I already mentioned that Sundowns are the most successful team.

“That’s what I’m here for, to win, to reap titles and to make it even bigger than it already is. I’m proud to be yellow.”

Leon becomes the first Colombian to sign for Sundowns since Leonardo Castro, who was part of the club’s historic 2016 CAF Champions League triumph before later joining Kaizer Chiefs.

He arrives at a critical moment for Masandawana. Sundowns are second on the Betway Premiership table, two points behind leaders Orlando Pirates, and face the possibility of seeing their run of eight successive league titles come to an end.

The Tshwane giants have already exited the MTN8 and Carling Knockout, leaving them with the league, Nedbank Cup and CAF Champions League to fight for.

Leon’s signing is seen as an attempt to inject more cutting edge into an attack that already includes Peter Shalulile, Iqraam Rayners, Lebo Mothiba and Arthur Sales. 

Rayners has been the most productive in the league, scoring six goals so far this season, underlining the competition Leon will face for a regular starting role.

In Africa, Sundowns remain firmly focused on the Champions League. 

They currently top Group C on four points, level with Al Hilal Omdurman but ahead on goal difference, and Leon is expected to add another dimension up front as they chase continental glory.

However, the Colombian forward steps into an environment clouded by uncertainty, with coach Miguel Cardoso’s future reportedly in doubt and Pitso Mosimane linked with a return to Chloorkop.

For Leon, the task is clear: adapt quickly, compete fiercely, and deliver in a season where expectations remain as high as ever at Sundowns.