Sometimes a fresh start is all a player needs—and for Monnapule Saleng, that new beginning is taking him back to familiar territory.
After a tough spell with Orlando Pirates, the 27-year-old winger is heading to Orbit College, where he’s hoping to rediscover his form and joy for the game.
No Game Time, No Future at Pirates
It’s no secret that Saleng’s time at Pirates had fizzled out.
He hasn’t made a single appearance for the club in 2025, and his place in the squad seemed more uncertain with every passing week.
For a player once tipped for greatness, being on the fringes for over a year took its toll.
Now, with a loan deal confirmed, Saleng will reunite with old friends and teammates at Orbit College, a place he fondly calls “home.”
Saleng Finds Peace in Familiar Surroundings
Speaking about his move, Saleng sounded upbeat and ready to move on.
“I’m really happy to be back home,” he said.
“Orbit had a great campaign, and just being able to come back and be part of that again makes me happy.
There’s nothing like being in a place that brings you peace.”
That kind of positive mindset might be exactly what he needs to reignite his career.
Could He Come Back to Haunt Pirates?
The twist? Orbit College might end up facing the very club that let Saleng go.
Football has a funny way of setting up these dramatic reunions.
With Saleng hungry to prove himself, there’s every chance he could deliver a performance that makes Pirates regret letting him go—especially with their fans still divided about the decision.
Meanwhile, Monyane Embraces New Life at Kaizer Chiefs
In another shakeup, Thabiso Monyane has crossed Soweto to join Kaizer Chiefs, and he’s already sounding like he’s found a new lease on life.
After slipping down the pecking order at Pirates behind Deano van Rooyen and Thabiso Lebitso, Monyane’s switch offers him a fresh opportunity and, hopefully, more minutes on the pitch.
“I’ve been welcomed with open arms—from the players to the technical team.
It’s been a breath of fresh air,” he said. “I’m enjoying embracing this new culture.”
More Changes Looming at Orlando Pirates
Saleng and Monyane aren’t the only ones moving on.
Orlando Pirates are reportedly letting go of up to 11 players as part of a broader squad overhaul.
One notable story involves Nkota, who recently had a lighthearted moment speaking Afrikaans with a new teammate in Saudi Arabia.
It’s been that kind of offseason—unexpected, unpredictable, and full of movement.
Will Saleng Ever Wear a Pirates Shirt Again?
That’s the big question fans are now asking.
Could this just be a loan to rebuild confidence before a return? Or is this the end of Saleng’s Pirates journey for good?
For now, he’s focused on what’s in front of him: Orbit College, match fitness, and playing with a smile on his face again.