The biggest WINNERS at Orlando Pirates if Monnapule Saleng is sold
Agreed?
Monnapule Saleng is likelier to leave Orlando Pirates than he is to stay. Who are the biggest potential beneficiaries?
Orlando Pirates players who could benefit if Saleng leaves
Mohau Nkota
The 20-year-old winger is already ahead of Saleng in the current pecking order for a starting berth on the right side of Pirates’ attack. A Saleng sale would further cement Nkota’s status there and help him go to the next level. The youngster has dazzled in his breakout campaign but there’s still plenty of room for improvement.
Kabelo Dlamini
Often used as a super-sub, talented 28-year-old left footer Kabelo Dlamini is a firm favourite with the Pirates fans. Usually deployed as a playmaker, he can also thrive as a narrow wide player and give Pirates more control in possession.
Deon Hotto
Like Dlamini, Namibian veteran Deon Hotto is a ‘Swiss Army Knife’ player who can adapt to several roles and systems. The 34-year-old is widely expected to leave the club at the end of this current campaign, but the club’s stance might change dramatically if Saleng is sold. Hotto has repeatedly been trusted in a right-sided inverted attacking midfield role in recent matches, a departure from his now-customary left-back slot. The 34-year-old would almost certainly get a contract extension to provide backup for the talented Nkota. Hotto scored and assisted in Pirates’ 2-1 win away to Sekhukhune in early February; clear evidence of his importance to the cause.
New signings incoming at Orlando Pirates?
Elias Mokwana, Oswin Appollis and Devin Titus have been mentioned as potential replacements. If any of them sign, the pressure to deliver would be intense, but that’s what top players thrive on in 2025.
Nobody can take PSL Player of the Year award away from Saleng
The 2022-2023 season was one of THE outstanding individual campaigns from a player in PSL history. Saleng banged in 15 goals and supplied 11 assists in 30 matches across all competitions. He was peerless, and rightly named PSL Player of the Season. The Pirates board might regret their decision not to cash in sooner when his value and reputation peaked.
What are your best Saleng moments in a Bucs jersey?
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