Orlando Pirates have let go of several high-profile players this winter. Judging by early season results, will this come back to bite them?
Karim Kimvuidi, Mohau Nkota, Monnapule Saleng, and Zakhele Lepasa are all embarking on new challenges.
Kimvuidi recently made an appearance on the bench for his new club.
‘Nkota is already a better player after leaving Pirates’
Kimvuidi’s up and running for FC Ashdod
DR Congo playmaker Karim Kimvuidi was in FC Ashdod’s squad for their 2-0 loss against Hapoel Tel Aviv in the Israeli Cup at the weekend. The 23-year-old struggled to nail down a regular place in the Pirates side during his two years with the club.
Pirates missed a trick by not selling Saleng at his peak
After hesitating to sell Monnapule Saleng, and with all possible suitors knowing he was unhappy at the club, Pirates scuppered a massive opportunity to make some money on the player, with a weakened bargaining position. The record departure in Pirates history was €2.3 million (R48 million) when Mbulelo ‘Oldjohn’ Mabizela moved to Tottenham in 2003-2004. It’s unlikely the Sea Robbers would have fetched a number in that region, but there’s no reason why the 2022-2023 PSL Player of the Year should be leaving on a free transfer. However, that’s the most likely scenario with the player out on loan with Orbit College for the 2025-2026 season. After all, there were substantial rumours of offers from Standard Liege in Belgium and French Ligue giants Monaco.
Details: Saleng returns to Orbit College
New captain for Pirates
29-year-old Nkosinathi Sibisi will wear the captain’s armband at Pirates in 2025-2026. He was a key figure last season alongside breakout star Mbekezeli Mbokazi in the heart of defence after Thabiso Sesane was struck down with a long-term injury. What happens when Sesane returns will be fascinating, as he might even dislodge the new captain. That’s a nice problem for new boss Ouaddao to have, though. Sibisi made 42 appearances last season across all competitions, including 25 in the league. The Sea Robbers have started this season in awful shape, losing to Sekhukhune and Marumo Gallants.
Will Ouaddou steady the ship?
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