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Nascimento: I was skeptical but now SA is my second home

Mamelodi Sundowns defender Ricardo Nascimento admits he wasn't initially sure whether a move to a South African team was for him, but now he feels at home.

The 33-year-old, who signed for Masandawana in July 2016, was sidelined during the start of the 2019/20 season with a long-term groin injury.

The Brazilian recovered in his native country and returned to make nine appearances for the Chloorkop outfit this season, before the coronavirus lockdown.

"I did my operation and rehab at home in Brazil. My recovery was great, and I felt confident coming back that I could play at my best," he told the club's official website.

"I have played 9 games this season, I feel good and happy - I missed football after 6 months on the sidelines. Training like this is good, but it's not the same thing. I miss the ball and the pitch. It's tough, I felt like I was picking up steam and hungry to add value to the team."

Looking back on the last four years, Nascimento admits he has grown fond of South Africa and is looking forward to getting back onto the pitch for Sundowns.

"I have spent 4 years here; South Africa is like my second home - SA was a lovely surprise. I came from Europe and Portugal where I had played for over 6 years," he added.

"At first when I initially got the offer, I was sceptical - having not watched any PSL games but it's been a great surprise.

"I think the League will kick-off, but the most important thing right now is the coronavirus. We all need to be safe and then get back on the pitch."

- TEAMtalk media

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