Orlando Pirates have launched a major squad overhaul ahead of the 2026/27 campaign, confirming the departure of seven senior players while simultaneously strengthening the team with eight new signings.
Fresh from securing a domestic treble last season, the Buccaneers are reshaping their squad under newly appointed head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou as preparations for the new campaign gather pace.
Surprise Exits Catch Supporters Off Guard
While some departures had been expected, others have come as a shock to the club’s supporters.
Among the biggest surprises are Thabiso Lebitso and Sipho Mbule, two players many fans believed would remain part of the squad heading into the new season.
Lebitso impressed during the early stages of last season before a lengthy injury layoff disrupted his progress.
By the time he returned to fitness, Deano van Rooyen had cemented his place at right-back, while Kamohelo Sebelebele had also emerged as another strong option in the position.
Mbule’s Season Took a Different Turn
Sipho Mbule featured regularly during the opening half of the campaign and played an important role in helping Bafana Bafana qualify for the FIFA World Cup.
However, reports suggest off-field issues affected his standing within the club, limiting his opportunities during the latter stages of the season before his eventual departure.
His exit marks the end of what many supporters hoped would become a long-term stay at the Soweto giants.
Mabasa Also Leaves After Loan Spell
Striker Tshegofatso Mabasa is another player moving on after the club decided not to retain his services.
Having spent last season on loan at Stellenbosch FC, the forward now finds himself without a club after becoming a free agent.
Many Pirates supporters had expected the striker to be reintegrated into the squad following his loan spell, making his departure another disappointing development for fans.
Several More First-Team Players Move On
In addition to the headline departures, Orlando Pirates have also confirmed the exits of Bandile Shandu, Karim Kimvuidi, Deivi Miguel Vieira, better known as Gilberto, Gomolemo Khoto and Siyabonga Ndlozi.
The departures represent one of the club’s most significant squad reshuffles in recent seasons as Ouaddou begins building a team in his own image.
Young Defender Sent Out on Loan
Not every player leaving the club is doing so permanently.
Promising right-back Tshepho Mashiloane will spend the upcoming season on loan at Sekhukhune United, where Pirates hope he will gain valuable first-team experience through regular football.
The temporary move is viewed as an important step in the youngster’s development.
Pirates Step Up Preparations for 2026/27
With several fresh faces already arriving at the club, Orlando Pirates have officially begun pre-season training.
The squad is also expected to travel to Europe in the coming weeks for an overseas training camp as Ouaddou continues implementing his ideas ahead of his first full season in charge.
Following last season’s domestic success, expectations remain high that the Buccaneers can once again challenge for major honours with their revamped squad.
