FRISCO, Texas (Aug. 29, 2025) — FC Dallas announced Friday that midfielder Katlego “Tsiki” Ntsabeleng has been loaned to Mamelodi Sundowns FC of the South African Premiership through June 2026. The move sends the Johannesburg native back to his home country, where he will join one of Africa’s most decorated and successful clubs.
Established Contributor in Dallas
Since being selected 28th overall in the 2022 MLS SuperDraft out of Oregon State University, Ntsabeleng has been a steady contributor for Dallas across four seasons. He has appeared in 92 matches, tallying two goals and seven assists across all competitions.
The midfielder made his professional debut on Feb. 26, 2022, against Toronto FC, coming on in the 73rd minute. He scored his first professional goal less than two months later, striking in a Texas Derby matchup against the Houston Dynamo on April 23, 2022.
In 2025, Ntsabeleng has featured in 13 matches, providing depth and energy in midfield rotations. Known for his quick feet, creativity, and ability to drive play forward, his versatility has been an asset for head coach Nico Estévez’s system.
Returning Home to South Africa
For Ntsabeleng, the loan represents not just a chance for consistent playing time, but also the opportunity to reconnect with his roots. Born and raised in Johannesburg, he rose through the ranks of the Stars of Africa Football Academy and also played for UJ Club before pursuing a collegiate career in the United States.
Now, he returns to join Mamelodi Sundowns, a club with an illustrious history in the South African Premiership. The Sundowns, multiple-time domestic champions and 2016 CAF Champions League winners, are widely regarded as a powerhouse in African football. The move gives Ntsabeleng the platform to compete at a high level on the continent while showcasing his abilities in front of home fans.
Collegiate Success Paved the Way
Before turning professional, Ntsabeleng enjoyed a standout career in NCAA soccer. He began at Coastal Carolina University, where he was twice named All-Sun Belt Conference and earned the 2018 Sun Belt Newcomer of the Year award. In 2019, he helped lead Coastal Carolina to a Sun Belt Conference Championship.
He later transferred to Oregon State University, where his impact was immediate. In 31 matches with the Beavers, Ntsabeleng scored six goals and recorded 12 assists. His playmaking ability earned him All-Pac-12 First Team and All-Far West Region First Team honors in 2021.
His performances caught the attention of FC Dallas scouts, leading to his first-round selection in the 2022 SuperDraft and eventual professional breakthrough.
Impact of the Move
For FC Dallas, the loan offers Ntsabeleng valuable minutes in a competitive league while freeing roster flexibility during the final months of the MLS campaign. The move also strengthens the player’s chances of pushing for national team recognition with South Africa, as Sundowns regularly compete in continental competitions that draw significant attention.
Dallas has emphasized the importance of finding opportunities that align with player development and international visibility. Ntsabeleng’s loan reflects that philosophy, giving him the chance to refine his game in a different environment before potentially returning to MLS next summer.
Looking Ahead
At 27 years old, Ntsabeleng is entering a crucial stage of his career. With his mix of MLS experience, international background, and technical creativity, his time at Sundowns could elevate his profile on both domestic and continental stages.
For now, Dallas fans will watch from afar as a familiar face pursues success in South Africa. Should Ntsabeleng return in 2026, he will bring back valuable experience from one of Africa’s most competitive clubs — potentially making him an even more influential presence in the FC Dallas midfield.
Final Word:
Katlego “Tsiki” Ntsabeleng’s loan to Mamelodi Sundowns FC is both a homecoming and an opportunity to grow. For FC Dallas, it is another example of how the club balances player development with global opportunities. For Sundowns, it is the acquisition of a technically gifted midfielder eager to make an impact.
