Orlando Pirates rumours: R40 million blunder, Saleng ultimatum
Today’s news wrap.
Orlando Pirates have big issues to resolve in the background while their relatively depleted side prepares for Cape Town City.
Marawa says he’ll spill the Saleng tea
Sports broadcaster Robert Marawa said on X on Monday:
“We have the story but giving the club 48hrs to address their fans on the matter. Otherwise, we will.”
Saleng’s last appearance for the club was a goalless draw with Al Ahly in the Caf Champions League group stages in December 2024.
Pirates regret spurning big offers
Not long ago, Pirates had the opportunity to sell Monnapule Saleng to European suitors. Figures in the region of €2 million (just a shade under R40 million) were mentioned. However, the Buccaneers board decided to keep their star winger. Now that decision appears to be a foolish one. The mercurial star hasn’t made a single competitive appearance in 2025. His last outing for the Sea Robbers was a goalless draw against Al Ahly in December in a Caf Champions League group stage match. Ever since his scintillating 2022-2023 campaign when he scored 15 goals and supplied 11 assists in 30 matches across all competitions, he’s looked a shadow of himself. The board likely regrets not selling him then, and now they’re finding it difficult to manage a player who’s dissatisfied with his situation.
Cape Town City test is next, midfield issues for Orlando Pirates to address
Pirates were due to Golden Arrows on Wednesday but the match was postponed. Influential midfield general Makhehlene Makhaula will miss Pirates’ next clash, against Cape Town City on Saturday 22 Feb, after he picked up a fourth booking of the campaign last time out against Baroka in the Nedbank Cup Round of 16. Kabelo Dlamini started alongside Makhaula against Baroka so he’ll keep his place. Now, head coach Jose Riveiro must decide who will partner with him. The versatile skills of Selaelo Rasebotja could come in handy. Will Mbatha return? He sounds as though he’s fit and ready to go.
Where will Saleng be playing his football next season?
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