Orlando Pirates have signed 12 players for the 2025/26 season as they look to once again challenge for the Betway Premiership and CAF Champions League.
With Jose Riveiro having jumped ship end of last season, the Buccaneers had to quickly find a new ‘captain’ to sail the ship. Moroccan-born coach Abdeslam Ouaddou is now captain of the ship, but things have not been smooth sailing since he took over.
After four matches, Pirates have only won once and suffered back-to-back league defeats. Fans of the club are worried about the team’s form and have every right to be given the changes the new coach has made.
Which five Orlando Pirates should not have been signed?
Tshepo Mashiloane
The former Baroka FC right-back has been a weak link in the Bucs defence. In the two matches he played this season, Mashiloane was far from convincing and he has since lost his position to regular right-back Deano Van Rooyen. Thabiso Lebitso and Bandile Shandu are also better options than the ex-Baroka star at the moment.
Tshepang Moremi
With Kamogelo Sebelebele firing left, right and centre, there’s no need for Moremi in the Pirates squad. The talented winger has not settled into the team. With the likes of Deon Hotto and Oswin Appollis, it is going to be difficult for him to find minutes and impress at Orlando Pirates.
Masindi Nemtajela
The 23-year-old midfielder is yet to play a minute for the Buccaneers this campaign. With Sipho Mbule and Thalente Mbatha preferred in the central midfield position, it is difficult to see how Nemtajela will fit in. He is not better than any of these players and although he is young, the former Marumo Gallants will not get minutes to cement his position anytime soon.
Yanela Mbuthuma
The striker has only played once this season and is yet to shine at his new club. Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has chosen Boitumelo Radiopane and Evidence Makgopa as his main strikers. With Tshegofatso Mabasa as another option, it makes less sense why the club signed the ex-Richards Bay top striker.
Sinoxolo Kwayiba
On paper, the signing of Kwayiba made sense however the creative midfielder only played once this season. Patrick Maswangany has been the go-to man for Orlando Pirates in the midfield, leaving no space for the ex-Chippa playmaker.
Which players should Pirates not have signed?
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