It’s been over four months since Orlando Pirates star Monnapule Saleng was last seen on the pitch, and his absence continues to puzzle fans and football insiders alike.
A Long and Unexplained Absence
The 26-year-old winger was last involved in the 3-2 loss to Magesi FC in the Carling Knockout in October 2024.
Since then, he has been out of action, with no official explanation for his extended time away from the team.
Despite not being injured, Saleng’s situation has remained shrouded in secrecy.
Journalists have frequently asked Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro about the reason behind Saleng’s absence, but Riveiro has maintained that it’s a highly sensitive and confidential matter.
The Mental Challenge: Concerns Over Saleng’s Well-being
As the months go by, former Orlando Pirates defender Edward Motale has shared his worries about Saleng’s mental state.
Speaking to FARPost, Motale expressed concerns that the prolonged absence could have had a significant impact on Saleng’s mental health. “I’m not sure how this has affected him mentally,” Motale confessed.
“It’s important that someone helps him strengthen his mental state. That’s my biggest fear for Saleng.”
Saleng has missed crucial matches, including games in the CAF Champions League, the Soweto Derby, and a major clash against Sundowns.
However, Motale remains hopeful that Saleng’s recent call-up to the Bafana Bafana squad for the CHAN tournament could provide him with a fresh start.
A Fresh Start with Bafana Bafana
Motale sees this call-up as an opportunity for Saleng to reset and regain his focus.
“This is his chance to start over,” Motale said. “He needs to be reminded that he’s part of the national team now.
Forget about everything that’s been happening, just focus on the game and play your best.”
According to Motale, if he were Saleng’s coach, he would tell him: “We didn’t call you up just for the sake of it.
We called you because we know what you can bring to the team. This is your time to shine.”
He believes the experience will help Saleng rediscover his confidence and set him on the path to recovery.
A Blessing in Disguise
Motale views Saleng’s call-up as a blessing, one that could help him heal both mentally and emotionally.
“This call-up is going to restart him,” Motale added.
“It’s going to put him in a place where he can begin afresh and help him more than anyone realizes.”
As Saleng embarks on this new chapter with Bafana Bafana, both fans and experts are hoping that the national team will offer him the platform he needs to overcome his struggles and return to top form.