With the off-season fast approaching, it’s not just transfers that are making waves at Orlando Pirates — the club could be heading into a major transformation.
From key players possibly leaving to coaching shifts and even a new captaincy, the Soweto giants have plenty going on behind the scenes.
Saleng’s Future in Doubt After Long Absence
One of the biggest questions fans are asking: what’s next for Monnapule Saleng? The 27-year-old winger, who made waves before his injury, has been out of action since December.
His six-month absence from the PSL has only added fuel to the rumours that he might be on his way out of Orlando Pirates this offseason.
It’s looking increasingly likely that the Bloemhof-born star won’t be donning the black and white next season.
Mofokeng Drawing Interest from African Giants
Then there’s Relebohile Mofokeng — a player Pirates are desperate to hold onto.
The 19-year-old has been catching serious attention, not just locally but from continental heavyweights.
Al Ahly, coached by Jose Riveiro (yes, the former Pirates boss), and Egyptian rivals Zamalek FC are both hot on his trail.
In fact, Zamalek already had a R25.8 million bid turned down earlier this year.
Still, holding onto Mofokeng won’t be easy.
Pirates to Name New Captain as Maela Departs
Leadership is also in the spotlight. With Innocent Maela officially released, the captain’s armband is up for grabs.
One name rising to the top? Defender Nkosinathi Sibisi. Club legend Benedict Vilakazi has backed Sibisi as a solid option, even if he finds it strange that the club keeps letting their skippers go.
“Sibisi would be a perfect replacement for Maela,” Vilakazi said, weighing in on the growing speculation.
Is Rulani Mokwena Headed Back to Soweto?
The Buccaneers are also still without a head coach.
With Jose Riveiro’s exit, the search is on for a new leader — and it looks like Rulani Mokwena could be the man for the job.
The former Mamelodi Sundowns coach, who recently turned down an offer from Zamalek, is reportedly on Pirates’ radar. Nothing’s official yet, but the buzz is growing.
Cape Town City’s Jaedin Rhodes Still a Target
On the transfer front, another familiar name is back in the mix: Jaedin Rhodes. The 22-year-old Cape Town City midfielder has long been a target for the Buccaneers, and sources suggest that Pirates plan to go after him again this transfer window. Despite a less-than-stellar season, the club sees potential in Rhodes — but prying him away from City may prove tricky. The Cape Town club has pushed back before, and their current internal challenges could complicate negotiations even more.
Who Should the Buccaneers Sign Next?
With so many moving parts, one thing’s for sure: Pirates fans are in for a busy few months. As contracts expire and new faces possibly join the squad, the team’s next chapter is shaping up fast. Got a player in mind who should wear the famous black and white next season?