Former Mamelodi Sundowns star Cassius Mailula has sent a heartfelt message to Masandawana following his departure to Toronto FC.

The Bafana Bafana international only spent one season playing in the Premier League Soccer (PSL) before Sundowns confirmed his departure to Major Soccer League outfit Toronto FC in July.

The 22-year-old enjoyed a stellar breakout season in which he scored 15 goals and assisted a further four from 31 appearances across all competitions.

Mailula also played an important role in helping the club retain the DStv Premiership title as well as helping them reach the semi-finals of the Caf Champions League.

“Sundowns, I want to take this opportunity to thank the president and chairman for taking care of me for a whole nine years at Sundowns,” he wrote on his Instagram account.

“Thank you for everything you’ve done for me and my family. I appreciate everything you’ve done for me. To all the Mamelodi Sundowns academy coaches, thank you for helping me. And guiding me throughout my time at the academy.

“You mean so much to me because I wouldn’t be where I am today without you guys. Thank you so much, coach Rhulani [Mokwena], for giving me the opportunity to play for Mamelodi Sundowns first team and for making my dream come true to play with my role model, Themba Zwane [Shikabala].

“And for even helping me to go play overseas, though I know it was a difficult decision to take.”