Orlando Pirates, under the management of José Riveiro, have been making bold moves by offering opportunities to young players coming through their DDC (Diski Development Centre).
The club has shown a willingness to trust its emerging talents, especially when faced with injuries in the senior squad.
This approach has not only helped the team during challenging times but also provided valuable experience to the next generation of Pirates stars.
Young Talents Seizing Their Chances
Recently, a number of promising players have been rewarded for their patience and hard work within the Pirates youth system.
Thabiso Sesane, for instance, had to wait for several years before becoming a key figure in the first team.
His journey took a temporary setback due to injury, but that paved the way for Mbekezeli Mbokazi to step up.
Similarly, players like Relebohile Mofokeng and Mohau Nkota have emerged as promising products of the Pirates DDC structure, earning spots in the senior team.
Siya Ndlozi’s Rise to the First Team
One player who has recently caught the eye is right-back Siya Ndlozi.
With the Pirates facing injuries to key senior players, particularly in the defensive positions, Ndlozi, at just 22 years old, has had to rise to the occasion.
He’s filled in for injured players like Thabiso Monyane and Thabiso Lebitso, and has even been learning from experienced right-back Deano van Rooyen.
His consistency and performances have earned him a three-year senior contract with the club.
Ndlozi’s Ambition to Play Abroad
However, despite his recent contract extension, it seems that Ndlozi’s ambitions might take him beyond South Africa.
According to Soccer-Laduma, the young right-back has set his sights on playing overseas.
“He’s a very confident player, and his dream is to play in Europe.
His first goal was to break into the Pirates first team, and now that he’s done that, he’s focused on cementing his place to boost his chances of securing a move abroad,” a source close to the player revealed.
The Future of Ndlozi at Pirates
As Pirates prepare to welcome back players like Lebitso and Monyane from injury, competition in the right-back position will increase.
Additionally, Bandile Shandu is back in the first team fold, which could further complicate Ndlozi’s role at the club moving forward.
It remains to be seen whether Ndlozi will remain with Pirates to continue his development or pursue his dream of a European career.