Orlando Pirates are having a remarkable season under Abdeslam Ouaddou, lifting both the MTN8 and Carling Knockout trophies and looking strong in the Betway Premiership and Nedbank Cup races.
However, not all is smooth sailing for the club, particularly for 31-year-old utility defender Bandile Shandu, who has seen his game time shrink dramatically this season.
Shandu Falling Down the Pecking Order
Shandu has made just two starts under Ouaddou this season, as the coach has preferred Deano Van Rooyen and Thabiso Lebitso at right-back.
Winger Kamogelo Sebelebele has even been occasionally used in Shandu’s position, leaving the veteran defender on the sidelines.
Speaking to Soccer Laduma, Shandu’s agent, Mike Makaab, confirmed that the player is now exploring options elsewhere.
“We were talking to Pirates about how they saw him.
But we’ve now got to open the market, which we’ve started doing.
The likelihood is that we will be looking at a new club for him, but we’ve left the door open for Orlando Pirates,” Makaab said.
A Career with Pirates
Shandu joined Orlando Pirates from Maritzburg United in 2021 and has made 110 appearances since then.
Over his time with the club, he has scored 11 goals and provided five assists, proving his versatility across the backline.
Despite these contributions, this season’s lack of opportunities signals a turning point in his career.
Pirates’ Strong Season Makes Competition Tough
The Buccaneers’ stellar form this season is partly thanks to smart recruitment and tactical adjustments by Ouaddou.
With the squad firing on all cylinders and key players performing consistently, Shandu’s struggle to break back into the team reflects both the depth of the squad and the high standards being demanded at Pirates this year.
Market Options and Future Prospects
While Shandu may look elsewhere, the door remains open for a return if circumstances change.
The player’s experience, adaptability, and past contributions make him a valuable asset, and he could be an attractive option for other clubs looking for a seasoned defender capable of slotting into multiple positions.
What’s Next?
Shandu and his agent are actively exploring the transfer market, speaking to potential clubs that might offer him regular first-team football.
Meanwhile, Orlando Pirates will continue their pursuit of domestic silverware, and Shandu’s situation will depend on squad requirements and managerial decisions in the coming months.
Fans will be watching closely to see whether he secures a move or earns a recall into the Pirates starting eleven.
Summary
Bandile Shandu, the 31-year-old utility defender for Orlando Pirates, is now seeking a new club after making only two starts this season.
Despite 110 appearances, 11 goals, and five assists since joining the Buccaneers in 2021, Shandu has fallen behind in the squad pecking order.
His agent confirmed that while discussions with Pirates are ongoing, they are actively exploring other opportunities.
With the Pirates enjoying a strong season and a deep squad, Shandu’s future may lie elsewhere, though a return to the club is still possible depending on how the remainder of the season unfolds.
