Mamelodi Sundowns’ Star Peter Shalulile Discusses His Surprise Ballon d’Or Aspiration

• Peter Shalulile is one of Mamelodi Sundowns' finest attackers
• The 30-year-old is currently with the Namibian national team at the AFCON
• The forward recently opened up on his Ballon d’Or dream in a recent interview

As the adage goes, 'dreaming comes at no cost,' and that's precisely what Mamelodi Sundowns forward Peter Shalulile is currently engaged in.

The Mamelodi Sundowns star, who has indeed been one of the brightest stars of coach Rulani Mokwena’s team, has opened up on a few of his most significant ambitions for his somewhat illustrious career.

The 30-year-old forward, boasting a track record of over 100 goals in 138 official games for the Brazilians, as per FotMob data, recently sat in a chat with the PitchSide Podcast, as detailed by Soccer Laduma.

Lionel Messi nominated for unusual award weeks after he won the Ballon d'Or

Football

The Namibian striker, who has consistently expressed his desire to challenge himself on a larger stage than the one provided by his current South African club, emphasised a few key career goals, including the coveted Ballon d'Or award.

Shalulile on his Ballon d’Or ambition

The dynamic forward, currently leading the Brave Warriors' pursuit of an unprecedented Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title recently discussed his aspirations of playing in Europe.

"I have a lot planned. We play to become stars and make our mark in other countries. Let's be honest," he emphasised. "I just hope that one day, I'll be sitting here on holiday, saying that I played against CR7 [Cristiano Ronaldo] and that I have the Ballon d'Or trophy."

While Shalulile's dreams are undoubtedly valid, it's important to note that there are currently no transfer rumours linking him to any European club. Additionally, his ambition to win the Ballon d'Or has sparked mixed reactions among fans.

PSG president hits out at Lionel Messi for 'disrespecting' the French club after exit

Football

Some have questioned the feasibility of his dream given his age, while others remain optimistic, drawing parallels to the trajectories of Real Madrid legends Karim Benzema and Alfredo Di Stefano, who won the award at an older age.

Although Shalulile is not currently linked with Los Blancos, it is undeniable that a move to Europe would be a crucial step if he aims to realise his ambitious dream.

Rulani hails Shalulile

In another report, Sports Brief emphasised that Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena lauded forward Peter Shalulile in anticipation of the Africa Football League clash against Wydad Casablanca.

Shalulile had played a crucial role in the Brazilian team's journey to the competition's final.

The 37-year-old football manager expressed high praise for the Namibian forward, along with midfielder Lucas Ribeiro Costa.