Mamelodi Sundowns coach Pitso Mosimane has confirmed that they will be without Brazilian defender Ricardo Nascimento for the start of the new campaign after he underwent a groin operation.

The 32-year-old is currently not part of the Brazilians pre-season preparations and recuperating at home in Brazil after sustaining a groin injury.

Mosimane has confirmed that the Absa Premiership Defender of the Season could face some time out on the sidelines as he continues to mend his way back to full match fitness.

‘Ricardo is going through an operation and it’ll take him a little bit longer,’ Mosimane told the media.

‘It’s the same challenge he had on the left-leg groin and now it’s on the right leg. He was looking good, but it’ll take him some time to heal. Ricardo will be out for some time.’

Meanwhile, Mosimane has also confirmed Uruguayan forward Gaston Sirino had to leave camp after picking up an injury.

‘Gaston got injured and we sent him to Joburg to have the injury attended to and see what we can get,’ he added.