It’s been months since Orlando Pirates winger Monnapule Saleng last stepped onto the field, and fans are starting to wonder if his time at the club is coming to an end.

The talented 26-year-old has only featured in three league matches this season, scoring twice in those appearances.

However, for reasons still unclear, he has been completely left out of the squad for the past two months.

No Sign of a Return to the Squad

Leading up to the highly anticipated Soweto Derby, there were whispers that Saleng might be included in the starting lineup, given his strong performances against Kaizer Chiefs in the past.

Yet, to the shock of many, he wasn’t even named on the bench.

The pattern continued against Sekhukhune United, further fueling speculation about his future at the club.

With coach Jose Riveiro preferring options like Mohau Nkota, Deon Hotto, and Relebohile Mofokeng in the wide positions, Saleng finds himself struggling to regain his place.

Unless these players begin to struggle, it seems unlikely that the Bafana Bafana winger will be brought back into the mix.

Blocked Transfer to the Middle East

Adding to the uncertainty, reports emerged last month that Orlando Pirates had blocked a potential move for Saleng to the Middle East.

According to well-known agent Rui Frois, UAE-based club Al Nasr SC made a serious attempt to sign him, but Pirates allegedly turned them down.

The club, however, firmly denied those claims.

In a strongly worded statement, Pirates dismissed the idea that any discussions ever took place.

“Orlando Pirates Football Club categorically denies ever receiving any offer from a Middle Eastern club for the services of Monnapule Saleng,” the statement read.

The club also hit back at reports that a high-ranking official met Frois in a public setting to discuss the potential transfer. “The Club does not conduct its business in malls.

No official from Orlando Pirates Football Club has spoken to Mr. Rui Frois regarding this matter,” they added.

Could Saleng Be on His Way Out?

Given his ongoing absence and the persistent transfer rumors, it’s looking increasingly possible that Saleng has played his final game for Orlando Pirates.

Having now missed 10 consecutive matches, it remains to be seen whether Riveiro will ever bring him back into the squad.

Despite his lack of game time, Saleng remains one of the most valuable wingers in the league.

At just 26 years old, he still has plenty to offer, and clubs like Kaizer Chiefs, Stellenbosch FC, and Mamelodi Sundowns are rumored to be monitoring his situation closely.

A Rift Between Saleng and Riveiro?

So far, Riveiro has avoided giving any clear answers about Saleng’s situation, raising further suspicions that there could be a rift between the two.

Whether it’s a tactical decision or something happening behind the scenes, the lack of transparency only fuels speculation about an impending departure.

What’s Next for Saleng?

Should Monnapule Saleng move on from Orlando Pirates? Would he be a good fit for another PSL giant?

This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

Share on Facebook «||» Share on Twitter «||» Share on Reddit «||» Share on LinkedIn