African midfielder and discarded winger

Orlando Pirates have landed a serious talent in 22-year-old Malian midfielder Abdoulaye Dine Mariko.

Signed from Djoliba AC in his homeland, he arrived in Soweto after a standout 2024/25 season, during which he was awarded the joint top scorer, best player, and goal of the season gongs.

According to the dreadlocked midfield maestro, North African clubs came knocking, but he had his eyes on Orlando Pirates.

ABDOULAYE DINE MARIKO TO ORLANDO PIRATES

Mariko explained why he chose the Sea Robbers over the tempting offers from North Africa, praising the Buccaneers’ history and the quality of the South African league.

“There were several clubs that contacted me from all over the world, like in Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia, and Algeria,” Mariko told Foot Africa. “But I joined Orlando Pirates in South Africa. It’s one of the biggest clubs on the continent, professional, well-structured, and with a good project,” he added.

“They also showed a lot of interest in me, so I decided to join them. It must also be recognised that it is a professional and very popular championship, and certainly one of the best on the continent,” the midfielder concluded.

KATLEGO OTLADISA MOVING ON FROM ORLANDO PIRATES

Former Orlando Pirates winger Katlego Otladisa could be set for a homecoming at Marumo Gallants, the side where his career first ignited to life.

Orlando Pirates may have deemed him surplus to requirements, but Otladisa could soon find himself back on familiar shores in the Betway Premiership.

According to the newest reports, the 28-year-old, formerly a young winger sensation at Mamelodi Sundowns, has attracted strong interest from Marumo Gallants, who are plotting a reunion with the pacey wide man.

The Rustenburg-born attacker departed Soweto after 12 appearances in three seasons with Orlando Pirates.

It was at Gallants between 2021 and 2023 where Otladisa made a name, dazzling on the wing and earning himself a big move to the Soweto giants.

But life at Orlando Pirates didn’t deliver the fairy tale. Game time was scarce, and a loan to Sekhukhune United followed last season, where he managed 11 appearances across all competitions.

According to Soccer Laduma, Gallants are the frontrunners for his signature, while the likes of Chippa United, Golden Arrows, Stellenbosch FC and Siwelele FC are also lurking.

Katlego Otladisa’s full list of previous clubs: