The late Jayden Adams was a key member of the Mamelodi Sundowns team who won the CAF Champions League.
There are pre-seasons defined by new signings, tactical adjustments and the excitement of a fresh campaign. Then there are pre-seasons where the biggest challenge is simply finding the strength to return to the training pitch.
Mamelodi Sundowns are facing the latter.
The Brazilians departed for Austria this weekend, just days after an emotional memorial service for midfielder Jayden Adams on Thursday. It is not the start to a new season anyone at Chloorkop would have envisioned, but it is now the reality they must confront.
Football has shown before that even the deepest wounds can be carried with dignity. Liverpool know that feeling all too well. The Merseyside club spent the entire 2025/26 season carrying the pain of losing forward Diogo Jota, who passed away in July 2025. Their response throughout the campaign showed how a football club can honour one of its own whilst still competing at the highest level.
