‘It wasn’t an easy decision’: Monnapule Saleng breaks silence

Orlando Pirates winger Monnapule Saleng has finally spoken out for the first time since being sidelined by the Buccaneers in December last year.

The 27-year-old attacker has not played for the team since December, with reports suggesting the reason was a wage dispute. After joining Orbit College on loan, Saleng expressed his happiness about starting afresh following a frustrating second half of the 2024/25 season.

The winger did not travel with the team on their pre-season tour to Spain, which hinted at a potential exit. Last week, the club announced that the speedy attacker would be loaned out for a season.

Monnapule Saleng joins Orbit College

“I must give thanks to the man above. I am very happy to be back home. Orbit College is a great team that plays exciting football, and I cannot wait to be a part of that,” he said as per SABC Sport.

“It wasn’t an easy decision to return home, especially after a long season without playing.”

Monnapule Saleng said he waited for his opportunity at Pirates in the second half of the season but the opportunity never came. He has a chance to start afresh at the newly promoted Orbit side.

“During this difficult time, I kept on pushing and I waited for my opportunity, but unfortunetly, that did not arrive, until Orbit College came calling.

“Many of the current Orbit College players were actually encouraging me when I wasn’t playing for Pirates,” he said.

Will Monnapule Saleng return to Pirates?

The Buccaneers will keep an eye on the winger in the first half of the season. If he impresses, coach Abdeslam Ouaddou will have to recall him, especially if the team needs goals.