Not long ago, Monnapule Saleng was celebrated as the PSL’s best.
Fast forward to now, and he’s back at a former lower-league club—Orbit College—on loan.
It’s a dramatic twist in a career that once looked destined for Europe.
After months of tension and zero game time at Orlando Pirates in 2025, the 27-year-old winger is hoping to get back to basics and revive his form in familiar surroundings.
2025 Was a Nightmare for Saleng
Let’s be real—2025 hasn’t been kind to Saleng. Despite his 2022-23 season heroics that earned him PSL Player of the Year, he hasn’t seen a minute of competitive club football this calendar year.
The fallout with Orlando Pirates was both public and painful.
With frustration mounting and playing time nonexistent, a move was inevitable—but few expected him to circle back to Orbit College.
Orlando Pirates Send Saleng and Two Others on Loan
Orbit College, newcomers to the Betway Premiership, now have three Pirates players on their books.
Along with Saleng, Thuso Moleleki and Yanga Madiba have also joined the side on loan for the 2025-2026 campaign.
But here’s the catch: none of them can play against Orlando Pirates this season.
Head coach Pogiso Makhoye confirmed the clause himself during a chat on 947’s MSW. “He won’t be able to play—him, Moleleki, and Madiba,” said Makhoye.
Pirates Missed Their Moment
What really stings for Pirates fans is how poorly the club handled Saleng’s situation.
Rather than selling him when interest peaked—reportedly from clubs like Standard Liege and Monaco—they held onto him too long.
By the time they were ready to move him, the damage was done.
Everyone knew he was unhappy, which completely undercut his market value. Now, they’re loaning out one of their most valuable players for free.
Compare that to their record sale—Mbulelo “Oldjohn” Mabizela’s R48 million move to Tottenham back in 2003—and it’s clear: this was a missed financial opportunity.
Was the “No Play vs Pirates” Clause a Smart Move?
The clause preventing Saleng and the others from facing Pirates could be seen as a clever insurance policy.
But fans are divided—was this a strategic move or just a weak attempt to save face?
Some supporters believe the club should’ve cashed in when they had the chance.
Others think loaning him out at all, without a permanent deal or sell-on clause, shows poor planning.
Can Saleng Reignite His Career at Orbit?
That’s the big question. Saleng may not be thrilled to be back at a former club, but it could be the reset he needs.
With less pressure and more playing time, he might just rediscover the form that made him a household name in South African football.
There’s no doubt Orbit College will benefit from his quality—he just won’t be available when they meet the team that cast him aside.
Bonus Buzz: Pirates’ Loss Could Be Orbit’s Gain
Interestingly, this isn’t the only departure from Pirates making waves.
There’s already buzz about former Pirate Relebohile Mofokeng (aka “Nkota”) speaking Afrikaans to his new teammates in Saudi Arabia—and apparently thriving.
Could this be a pattern? Are players getting better after leaving Pirates? Fans are watching closely.
What’s Next for Saleng?
The spotlight now shifts to what Saleng can do with this fresh start.
Can he get back into top shape and attract offers again? Or will this loan spell mark the start of a permanent step away from elite football?
Whatever happens, Orbit College has gained a headline player—and Orlando Pirates may have let a star slip through their fingers.
