After seven solid years with Orlando Pirates, Paseka Mako is officially on his way out—and the shock hasn’t quite settled among Buccaneers supporters.
The 31-year-old left-back, known for his grit and experience, has reportedly made up his mind to swap black and white for gold and black.
Yes, he’s heading to Kaizer Chiefs, and it seems like the deal is nearly done.
A Departure Nobody Saw Coming
Mako, originally from Zebediela, has been a reliable figure at Pirates and played a part in securing four MTN8 titles and two Nedbank Cup trophies.
So when the club tried to convince him to stay, it wasn’t a surprise.
What did surprise many was that Mako had already given Chiefs the nod.
According to sources close to the deal, the player agreed to join Amakhosi even before the final whistle blew at the Nedbank Cup final in Durban.
“Pirates were eager to keep him, but Mako had already decided,” an insider told Kick Off.
“There were plans to offer him a role at the club beyond his playing days, but he had already chosen to move on.”
Chiefs One Step Away from Finalizing the Deal
It looks like Kaizer Chiefs are putting the final pieces together to welcome Mako on a free transfer.
SABC Sport’s Mazola Molefe confirmed over the weekend that talks have reached an advanced stage, and a formal announcement might not be far off.
“Paseka Mako is in talks with Kaizer Chiefs,” Molefe reported. “The 31-year-old could be set to join their Soweto rivals ahead of the new season.”
Chiefs have long been on the hunt for reinforcements at left-back.
Their top wish was reportedly Stellenbosch FC’s Fawaaz Basadien—but if that dream signing doesn’t happen, Mako brings both experience and versatility to the role.
Struggles at Pirates Pushed Him Toward the Exit
Mako’s final season with Pirates was far from smooth.
Injuries limited his game time, and he only featured in 17 matches—mostly off the bench.
With Deon Hotto solidifying the left-back spot and youngsters like Mbekezeli Mbokazi and Yanga Madiba stepping up, Mako struggled to reclaim his place in the starting lineup.
That lack of playing time, along with uncertainty about his future at the club, likely influenced his decision to explore a new challenge at Naturena.
A Career That’s Come Full Circle
For those who’ve followed his journey, Mako’s rise has been nothing short of inspiring.
He got his start at the Mamelodi Sundowns development academy before making his professional debut in the Motsepe Foundation Championship with the now-defunct Cape Town All Stars.
From there, he moved to Chippa United, where he caught the eye of Orlando Pirates.
Now, with Chiefs knocking, Mako has the chance to reignite his career at one of South Africa’s biggest clubs.
Is Kaizer Chiefs the Right Fit for Mako?
That’s the million-rand question. Will Mako’s experience be the steadying force Chiefs need at the back? Or is this just a sentimental signing? With his injury history and limited minutes last season, some fans are skeptical.
But others believe he could still have plenty to offer—especially in a team desperate for defensive consistency.
What do you think? Is this a smart move for both Mako and Chiefs?