Orlando Pirates closed the transfer window with another bold squad shake-up.
The Soweto giants ended last season 12 points behind Betway Premiership champions Mamelodi Sundowns, bowed out to CAF Champions League winners Pyramids FC in the semifinals, lifted the MTN8, but fell short in the Nedbank Cup final against rivals Kaizer Chiefs.
This time around, the Buccaneers took zero half measures. A staggering 18 players departed, including Monnapule Saleng, who went on loan to Orbit College FC, and Mohau Nkota, who sealed a move to Saudi Arabian side Al Ettifaq.
ORLANDO PIRATES’ 2025/26 BETWAY PREMIERSHIP SQUAD
The Sea Robbers then made a splash in the transfer market with 14 signings, with Bafana Bafana stars Oswin Appollis and Sipho Mbule taking the headlines.
The moves were a clear signal of intent as Orlando Pirates look to push Sundowns all the way in the league, not forgetting their rivals like Pyramids FC and Al Ahly in the CAF Champions League.
The squad now stands at 36 players, blending seasoned campaigners with exciting new energy.
Full Orlando Pirates squad
Goalkeepers: Sipho Chaine, Melusi Buthelezi, Siyabonga Dladla
Defenders: Nkosinathi Sibisi, Tapelo Xoki, Olisa Ndah, Thabiso Sesane, Lebone Seema, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Nkosikhona Ndaba, Deano Van Rooyen, Siyabonga Ndlozi, Thabiso Lebitso, Bandile Shandu, Deon Hotto
Also read: Transfer window closed: Here’s Kaizer Chiefs’ 39-man squad
Midfielders: Sihle Nduli, Makhehlene Makhaula, Thalente Mbatha, Sipho Mbule, Masindi Nemtanjela, Simphiwe Selepe, Abdoulaye Mariko, Selealo Rasebotja, Cemran Dansin, Patrick Maswanganyi, Kabelo Dlamini
Forwards: Relebohile Mofokeng, Oswin Appollis, Tshepang Moremi, Kamogelo Sebelebele, Sinoxolo Kwayiba, Tshegofatso Mabasa, Evidence Makgopa, Yanela Mbuthuma, Boitumelo Radiopane, Sifiso Luthuli
With this 36-man squad, coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has the depth to rotate across competitions while keeping the team sharp. Orlando Pirates can still add players outside the window, but only those available as free agents.