Sundowns slammed over Dolly claim

MAMELODI Sundowns’ claim that they made a mistake on Keagan Dolly’s contract – the subject of a dispute blocking a European move for the winger – is hard to believe and leaves a bitter taste‚ Downs legend Zane Moosa says.

Moosa said even if Sundowns had genuinely made a mistake‚ that was their failure and it should not stand in the way of Dolly’s potential move to French club Montpellier or Greek side Olympiacos.

Moosa said any attempt to block a European move for Dolly in the January transfer window would be poor treatment of a player who had continued to serve the Brazilians with complete dedication – including through a gruelling schedule becoming African champions and playing at the Fifa Club World Cup – despite the ongoing dispute.

“With the Keagan Dolly situation‚ it doesn’t seem right‚ the whole thing‚ to be honest‚” Downs’ former midfield wizard Moosa said yesterday.

“I know Sundowns are a club‚ especially since [president] Patrice Motsepe took over‚ who look after their players well financially,” he said.

“But I think Keagan is ready to go overseas.

“He’s played at all levels now except the World Cup.

“He’s played in the Olympics‚ he’s made a mark with the Sundowns team that became champions of Africa.

“And even through this [dispute] process he hasn’t shown that it’s affected his play.

“He’s continued in a professional way‚ in terms of his performances and his attitude.

“This thing leaves a bit of a bitter taste in terms of how it’s being handled.

“To say it’s a mistake – we know mistakes happen‚ but it’s kind of hard to believe.

“And even it it’s true it’s their mistake‚ so why should it cost Keagan?”

Dolly has been taken to the Premier Soccer League’s Dispute Resolution Chamber to dispute a R12-million buyout clause in the Bafana winger’s contract should he receive interest from European clubs.

Downs claim changes to the clause‚ made when the player renewed the contract 17 months ago‚ were a mistake.

Montpellier and Olympiacos have both put in R14-million offers for the player.

Sundowns could not be reached for comment.