Orlando Pirates have reportedly parted ways with midfielder Sipho Mbule after just one season.
The 28-year-old joined the Buccaneers in July 2025 on a free transfer after his contract with Mamelodi Sundowns expired.
Despite early promise, Mbule did not live up to the hype and was benched for much of the second half of the season.
He played 23 matches across all competitions for the Sea Robbers, scoring only once.
Having lost his place in the Bafana Bafana squad after 2025 AFCON, there were speculations on the midfielder’s future at Pirates. Reports indicated that the player may have had a fallout with Bucs head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou.
On Tuesday, FARPost confirmed that Mbule was no longer contracted with Pirates.
“A source close to the situation has confirmed that Pirates have informed Mbule of their decision not to extend his stay at the club. However, the talented midfielder is unlikely to be short of suitors ahead of the new season,” the publication wrote.
The publication also linked him with a move to Siwelele.
Mbule made a name for himself at SuperSport United, where he spent five years before making a big move to Mamelodi Sundowns in 2022.
Mbule a free agent after leaving Pirates
At Sundowns, he won the league twice but off-the-field issues derailed his career and he was sent on loan to Sekhukhune United, where he also had discipline issues.
At Pirates, it seemed Mbule was making the most of his second chance and played an instrumental role in the Buccaneers winning the MTN8 as well as the Carling Knockout. His biggest impact however was at Bafana Bafana helping them qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
