The Orlando Pirates have been active in the transfer market this season, adding four new players to their first team and promoting several promising youngsters.
The team has been busy balancing new signings with departures, all while focusing on developing young talent.
A Commitment to Youth
Coach Jose Riveiro has demonstrated a strong commitment to nurturing young talent.
During the pre-season, he gave several youngsters the opportunity to join the senior team on their trip to Spain.
Among them were Mohau Nkota, Dimpho Madalane, and goalkeepers Siyabonga Dladla and Bayanda Zulu.
This follows a trend seen with players like Boitumelo Radiopane and, more recently, Relebohile Mofokeng.
The Pirates’ DDC stars appear to have a clear path to the senior team.
Mbekezeli Mbokazi: The Next in Line?
One player who is poised to benefit from this development is Mbekezeli Mbokazi.
The 18-year-old center-back has been a key player in the DDC side’s defense and is reportedly on the verge of joining Riveiro’s senior squad.
According to Soccer-Laduma sources, his promotion is just around the corner.
Inside Scoop on Mbokazi’s Potential Promotion
A source close to the Pirates revealed that if it weren’t for Mbokazi’s commitments with the Under-20 national team, he might have already joined the senior squad.
Both the DDC and senior team coaches, along with management, are in agreement that he should spend more time with the senior team.
However, he could still participate in DDC matches.
The plan is for him to gain experience from the senior defenders and bring that back to the DDC team.
His promotion seems imminent, but they will wait for him to return from national duties.
The Advantage of Being Left-Footed
An insider also pointed out that Mbokazi’s left-footedness is a valuable asset.
The team aims to strengthen their central defense pairing, and with Thabiso Sesane and Olisa Ndah performing well, Mbokazi could be a great addition.
With Nkosinathi Sibisi mainly on the bench and Thapelo Xoki sidelined due to injury, Mbokazi’s familiarity with the Pirates’ culture makes him a strong candidate for the role.
The plan is to integrate him into the senior team once he returns from Under-20 duties.
What’s Next for Mbokazi?
The big question now is when Mbokazi will get his chance with the senior team.
Pirates fans, how excited are you to see this young defender make his mark?
Stay tuned to find out what happens next!
