Erwin Saavedra: Embattled Mamelodi Sundowns Midfielder Confirms Next Move

• Erwin Saavedra has left Mamelodi Sundowns temporarily after failing to break into the starting lineup
• The sensational midfielder failed to make matchday squads as he struggled with fitness problems
• The 28-year-old has returned to his former club in Bolivia and will play there until the end of the term

Having failed to maintain his fitness, Erwin Saavedra has left Mamelodi Sundowns and will spend the next six months back home in Bolivia.

The 28-year-old will play at Club Bolivar until the end of the season, having failed to make the starting line-up at Sundowns.

Saavedra joined the Brazilians from Bolivar in February 2022 with a massive reputation in a reported R15-million deal.

He suffered an injury on his CAF Champions League debut against Al Hilal, and since then, he has struggled with his fitness.

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Meanwhile, Sundowns are said to be interested in the star and believe he will come back stronger in the summer.

iDiski Times reports that Saavedra has completed a loan move back to the club he came from with no option to buy.

He is eligible to feature in this season's Copa Libertadores as Club Bolivar begin their quest for the title.

Recall that Saavedra joined Sundowns’ midfield rank in January 2022 alongside fellow signings Teboho Mokoena and Bradley Surprise Ralani, who also signed during the transfer window.

Despite Sundowns adding significantly to their team that year, co-coach Manqoba Mngqithi admitted that the Brazilians missed out on two marquee signings, Luis Diaz and Vinícius Junior.

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Key Sundowns players have been sidelined due to injuries sustained during their stint with Bafana Bafana at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2023.

Coach Rulani Mokwena disclosed that central defender Mothobi Mvala and right-back Khuliso Mudau will be absent from the lineup for the group stage match, leaving a noticeable void in the team's defensive setup.