Everyone loves a good comeback story—and that’s exactly what Enock Sakala is hoping to write.
The 23-year-old Zambian striker has popped up at Orlando Pirates’ pre-season camp, sparking chatter among fans who are curious if he’s about to land a major lifeline in his once-promising football career.
Fresh off a short stint with Chippa United, Sakala is now training under the watchful eye of the Buccaneers’ new head coach, Abdeslam Ouaddou.
But whether this is just a training invite or the beginning of something more is still very much up in the air.
From ZESCO United Stardom to Career Uncertainty
Sakala’s journey started out strong.
He made a name for himself at ZESCO United, quickly becoming one of Zambia’s most exciting young attacking talents.
He consistently delivered goals in the local league and played an important role in Zambia’s COSAFA Cup triumph in 2022.
That year, he notched 12 domestic goals and was tipped for even greater things.
Unfortunately, things didn’t quite go as planned after his move to Egypt.
A spell with Modern Sport didn’t provide the minutes or momentum he needed.
He later signed a short-term deal with Chippa United, but again struggled to make a lasting impression, scoring just once in six appearances.
Training with Pirates, But Spain Trip Not Happening
Now at Pirates’ Inside BucsCamp, Sakala is training with focus and purpose, clearly hoping to convince the technical team that he still has the fire and form to compete in the Betway Premiership.
However, it’s not all smooth sailing just yet.
According to a club insider, Sakala’s future with the Pirates is still undecided.
“He’s only trained twice since joining the camp on Friday,” the source said.
“He won’t be part of the squad travelling to Spain, and a final decision on his future will be made later.”
A Crucial Crossroads in His Career
This moment could prove decisive for Sakala.
At just 23, he still has plenty of football ahead of him—but he’s running out of chances to prove he belongs at the top level.
A permanent deal with a club like Orlando Pirates could be the revival he’s been waiting for.
The coming days will be critical. Will the Pirates’ coaching staff see enough potential to offer him a contract? Or will he be left searching for yet another opportunity to restart his career?
The Ball’s in His Court Now
Enock Sakala knows what’s at stake. He’s been to the top, tasted international glory, and now finds himself at a crossroads.
Whether he becomes a Buccaneer or not, one thing is clear: he’s got everything to fight for.
Let’s see if this is the beginning of the comeback he’s been chasing.