Sipho Mbule officially joined Orlando Pirates ahead of the 2025/26 season on a free transfer after Mamelodi Sundowns opted not to renew his contract.
Known for his exceptional vision and passing range, the midfielde, affectionately dubbed “Master Chef,” was snapped up by the Buccaneers following a tumultuous loan spell at Sekhukhune United.
The club secured the 27-year-old on a strategic one-year contract featuring a two-year extension option based on performance and discipline.
SIPHO MBULE DROPPED FROM ORLANDO PIRATES TEAM
The Bethlehem-born started well enough in the first round but his involvement became less consistent in the second half of the season. Mbule missed several matches for reasons that were not publicly explained by the club or coaching staff.
Speaking during an exclusive interview with iDiski Times, Makaab stressed that while external opinions have been strong. He said the final decision rests with the coaching structure and how they see the player fitting into their system.
MIKE MAKAAB SPEAKS
“With Mbule, one needs to understand that coaches see players in a certain way,” Makaab told iDiski Times.
“You have a look at what Orlando Pirates have achieved this season, the league and two cups.
“They play a certain type of football. It’s up to the coach to decide whether player fits into that type of football or not. A lot of sinister comments have been made around Mbule for a couple of months. “In a very simple form, one has to respect the technical stuff’s decisions.
“They have done incredibly well at Pirates, they have a right to decide who they believe who must play to achieve what they want. That’s something we need to respect.”
Makaab was also asked directly whether Mbule would remain at Orlando Pirates beyond the current deal, with the club holding an option.
“I can’t even comment on that, the club has an option until the end of May,” he explained.
“And again, I have to respect that. Whatever decision is made, I must respect that.”
At this stage, Mbule’s future remains unresolved. Orlando Pirates are yet to make a public call on whether they will activate the extension option or allow the situation to move in a different direction ahead of the new season.
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