Monnapule Saleng once lit up the South African Premier Soccer League like few others, but lately, his presence on the pitch has been eerily absent.

Pirates fans are left wondering—will we ever see the electric Saleng from the 2022-2023 season again?

From Star of the League to a Fading Memory

Not too long ago, Saleng was the shining star of the PSL.

In the 2022-2023 season, he was more than just a key player—he was a true menace for defenders across the league.

However, these days, it feels like the 27-year-old winger has slipped under the radar, becoming one of the PSL’s overlooked talents.

For Orlando Pirates, this isn’t just about one player’s form; it’s a bigger issue that could hold back their ambitions for the 2025-2026 campaign if not sorted out soon.

What Did Saleng Achieve at Pirates?

Saleng’s 2022-2023 season was nothing short of spectacular.

He bagged an impressive 15 goals and provided 11 assists in just 30 appearances across all competitions, earning him the coveted PSL Player of the Year award.

His knack for rising in big moments was clear when he scored two goals in the MTN8 semi-final against Sundowns and netted the winner in the final versus AmaZulu.

His class and ability to deliver on the big stage made him arguably the best player in South Africa at that time.

The Current Situation: Where Is Saleng Now?

The last competitive game Saleng played for Orlando Pirates was back in December 2024, and since then, speculation around his future has been rife.

Rumors swirl that he might be making a switch to rivals like Kaizer Chiefs or Sundowns, or perhaps heading abroad to clubs such as Anderlecht or Monaco. There’s even chatter about a move to Egypt’s Al Ahly.

Wherever he ends up, everyone agrees Saleng’s next step will be a major talking point.

What’s Next for Saleng and Pirates?

The uncertainty around Saleng’s future leaves fans and analysts asking: what will his role be in the upcoming season?

Will Pirates manage to reignite the fire that made Saleng a standout star, or will they have to move on and find new talents to fill that void? The coming months will be crucial not just for the player, but for the club’s strategic direction.