As Orlando Pirates gear up for the upcoming 2025/26 season, the club is juggling more than just pre-season planning.
From injury recoveries to transfer drama, the Buccaneers are in for a busy few weeks.
Ndah’s Long Road to Recovery Almost Over
The team has been without their dependable Nigerian centre-back Olisa Ndah for most of last season.
After suffering a tibia fracture back in September, Ndah was sidelined for months, leaving a noticeable gap in Pirates’ defence.
Thankfully, things are looking up. Ndah is expected to return to full fitness in time for the new campaign.
However, there’s still some doubt about whether he’ll be match-ready in time for next month’s pre-season tour of Spain, where the Buccaneers are set to face clubs like Bolton Wanderers, Pafos FC, Las Palmas, and Granada.
Mofokeng Transfer Rumors Reach Boiling Point
While the coaching staff manage injury timelines, another storyline is quickly heating up — the future of rising star Relebohile Mofokeng.
Interest in the 19-year-old forward is growing rapidly, with FC Cincinnati from Major League Soccer becoming the latest club to express serious interest.
They’re not alone. African powerhouses Zamalek and Al Ahly are also circling, and Pirates may be bracing for what feels inevitable — Mofokeng’s departure.
His Father Wants Europe, Not a Return to SA
Adding more momentum to the possible exit is Mofokeng’s father, Sechaba, who’s openly voiced his wish for his son to move abroad next season.
He’s dreaming big — and praying even harder.
“My biggest wish is to see Rele overseas in 2025/2026
. I’m praying every day. I don’t want to see him in the Betway Premiership again this season,” Sechaba said passionately.
He believes Mofokeng is ready for European competition and listed potential destinations ranging from Spain, England, the Netherlands, France, Denmark, and Switzerland — even dropping heavyweight names like Barcelona and PSG.
“He can play anywhere — just not Saudi Arabia,” he added.
“Not yet. He’s still young.
He needs to compete in UEFA competitions. If he goes to Saudi now, he won’t experience that.
Yes, he’d be rich, but happiness is more important.”
Can Pirates Keep Up Without Their Rising Star?
If Mofokeng does leave, the big question is how the Orlando Pirates will cope without him.
The teenager’s talent, speed, and vision have been central to the team’s recent performances.
Losing him could leave a creative void that won’t be easy to fill.
Supporters and analysts alike are now watching closely to see how the club handles what could be one of the biggest transitions of the offseason.
