Orlando Pirates Coach Jose Riveiro Excludes Zakhele Lepasa from CAF Champions League and MTN8 Matches Amid Speculation of SuperSport United’s Interest

Orlando Pirates’ head coach, Jose Riveiro, has made some notable decisions this season by leaving out Zakhele Lepasa from both the CAF Champions League and MTN8 games.

This move has left many wondering about Lepasa’s future with the team, especially as Gavin Hunt of SuperSport United admits his need for a striker.

Zakhele Lepasa’s Future in Doubt

It’s becoming increasingly clear that Riveiro has a preference for Tshegofatso Mabasa and Evidence Makgopa over Lepasa.

This shift in preference has fueled speculation about Lepasa’s future, particularly as reports suggest that SuperSport United is eyeing the 27-year-old striker.

With another injury hitting Bradley Grobelar, SuperSport United might be looking to secure Lepasa before the transfer window closes.

According to iDiski Times, “SuperSport United have switched their focus to out-of-favor Orlando Pirates striker Zakhele Lepasa, with the current transfer window nearing its end.”

Gavin Hunt’s Response

In response to the rumors, SuperSport’s coach Gavin Hunt has made it clear that while his team does need a striker, they haven’t made any concrete moves for Lepasa yet.

Hunt expressed his frustration with the situation, highlighting the impact of losing key players like Ighodaro and Bradley, who contributed 20 goals last season.

“We read about Zakhele Lepasa possibly moving to SuperSport in the media, but the fact is we need strikers,” Hunt told FARPost.

“With Ighodaro and Bradley gone, who will step up to provide those 20 goals?

We’re facing challenges with work permits too.

There should be a system where everyone gets their work permits at the same time.”

Hunt also suggested, “It would be fair if work permits were handled like they are in Europe, with everyone receiving them simultaneously.”