If there’s one club making serious moves this transfer window, it’s Orlando Pirates.
The Soweto giants didn’t just dip into the market—they dived in headfirst, locking in an impressive 11 new players ahead of the new Betway Premiership season.
From experienced midfielders to promising defenders and quick-footed wingers, Pirates are clearly building a squad with depth, youth, and versatility.
And with Abdeslam Ouaddou now steering the ship as head coach, this fresh lineup could be the spark the team needs.
Big Names Lead the Pack with Mbule and Appollis
The standout names from this new batch? Without a doubt, it’s Sipho Mbule and Oswin Appollis.
Mbule, a 27-year-old midfielder who made waves at Mamelodi Sundowns, brings vision and control to the center of the pitch.
Meanwhile, Appollis, the speedy 23-year-old winger from Polokwane City, adds flair and pace down the flanks.
National Team Talent in the Mix
It’s not just club experience coming in—several of these signings have represented Bafana Bafana, showing Pirates aren’t just signing numbers—they’re adding quality.
Here are a few names worth noting:
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Yanela Mbuthuma (striker) – 23, from Richards Bay
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Masindi Nemtajela (midfield engine) – 23, from Marumo Gallants
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Tshepang Moremi (winger) – 24, from AmaZulu
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Sinoxolo Kwayiba (attacking midfielder) – 25, from Chippa United
This group brings national-level experience, which could be crucial in high-pressure moments throughout the season.
Here’s the Full List of Pirates’ New Arrivals
Let’s break it down position by position, including their ages and former clubs:
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Tshepho Mashiloane, 23 – Right-back from Baroka FC
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Lebone Seema, 22 – Left-sided central defender from TS Galaxy
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Nkosikhona Ndaba, 22 – Left-back from Richards Bay
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Sihle Nduli, 29 – Central midfielder from Stellenbosch FC
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Sipho Mbule, 27 – Central midfielder from Mamelodi Sundowns
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Masindi Nemtajela, 23 – Central midfielder from Marumo Gallants
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Tshepang Moremi, 24 – Winger from AmaZulu
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Sinoxolo Kwayiba, 25 – Attacking midfielder from Chippa United
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Yanela Mbuthuma, 23 – Striker from Richards Bay
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Oswin Appollis, 23 – Winger from Polokwane City
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Kamegelo Sebelebele, 22 – Winger from TS Galaxy
That’s a mix of youth and experience across all lines of play—defense, midfield, and attack.
Loan Watch: Mariko Heads Out
Interestingly, Abdoulaye Mariko, who had just arrived at the club, has already been loaned out to Chippa United.
It’s unclear whether this is for development purposes or simply a short-term reshuffling, but it’s worth keeping an eye on.
Coach Ouaddou Prepares for the Season in Spain
With the new faces joining the squad, Coach Abdeslam Ouaddou is wasting no time.
He’s currently putting the team through their paces during pre-season training in Marbella, Spain, hoping to build chemistry and sharpen tactics before the competitive games kick off.
Fans Weigh In on the Transfer Blitz
What do you make of this bold strategy? Are Pirates stacking the deck with potential or taking a risky gamble on too many new faces?
Whether you’re excited or skeptical, fans have been buzzing on social media and in comment sections.
If you’ve got something to say, you can drop your thoughts in the comments or message directly on WhatsApp at 060 011 021 1.
Stay Tuned for the Latest Orlando Pirates Updates
To keep up with the latest transfer news, match updates, and behind-the-scenes from Orlando Pirates and the rest of the Betway Premiership, make sure to follow The South African on WhatsApp, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Bluesky.
With the new season on the horizon, all eyes will be on how this overhauled Pirates squad comes together—and whether it’ll translate into silverware.