Orlando Pirates could have a significantly different look next season following the arrival of seven new signings during the transfer window.
The Buccaneers enjoyed a memorable 2025/26 campaign, winning a domestic treble while ending their 14-year wait for the Betway Premiership title.
Falling short in the CAF Champions League however, has prompted the club to strengthen the squad further in a bid to compete on all fronts.
With several exciting additions and a few key departures, here’s how Orlando Pirates could line up next season.
Goalkeeper: Sipho Chaine
The 29-year-old enjoyed another outstanding campaign, keeping more than 20 clean sheets to set a new PSL record. Chaine has firmly established himself as Pirates’ first-choice goalkeeper and is expected to remain unchallenged between the posts.
Right wing-back: Kamohelo Sebelebele
Sebelebele’s pace and energy make him one of Pirates’ biggest attacking outlets. Comfortable playing as either a wing-back or winger, he is expected to provide width, create chances and cause problems for opposition defences throughout the season. Mike Mamosha also offers valuable competition on the right flank.
Centre-back: Nkosinathi Sibisi
Despite receiving criticism from sections of the fanbase, Sibisi remains one of the team’s leaders. His experience, composure and organisational skills make him a likely starter and an important figure in the heart of the defence.
Centre-back: Lebone Seema
The young defender has impressed since breaking into the first team and is quickly establishing himself as one of the league’s brightest prospects. His consistency and defensive maturity played a key role in Pirates’ title-winning campaign, putting him among the contenders for Defender of the Season.
Left wing-back: Neo Rapoo
Rapoo could edge ahead of Deon Hotto and Nkosikhona Ndaba for the starting role. After showing impressive defensive discipline and composure during his spell at Siwelele, the youngster looks ready to make the step up at Pirates.
Orlando Pirates looking for another dominant season
Central midfield: Mthetheli Mthiyane
The former Stellenbosch FC midfielder is expected to add energy, aggression and composure in midfield. With Makhehlene Makhaula turning 37 and Sihle Ntuli still recovering from injury, Mthiyane could become a regular starter.
Central midfield: Thalente Mbatha
A fully fit Mbatha will be a major boost for Pirates. The Bafana Bafana midfielder was influential whenever he featured last season, with the Buccaneers remaining unbeaten in matches he started, a remarkable statistic that underlines his importance.
He will be key in the midfield of Orlando Pirates are to dominate another season.
Left wing: Tshepang Moremi
Moremi is expected to continue on the left flank after an encouraging first season at the club. With another year of experience behind him, Pirates will be hoping he contributes more goals and assists.
Right wing: Ghampani Lungu
Lungu is tipped to add a new dimension to Pirates’ attack. Blessed with pace, skill and an eye for goal, he is capable of beating defenders in one-on-one situations, while his height also makes him a threat from set-pieces.
No Rele Mofokeng for Orlando Pirates this season
Attacking midfield: Oswin Appollis
Following Relebohile Mofokeng’s departure, Appollis is expected to take on greater creative responsibility. The talented attacker has the ability to unlock defences and could become the focal point of Pirates’ attacking play.
Striker: Evidence Makgopa
Makgopa is likely to lead the line once again after another solid campaign. His ability to hold up play, bring teammates into the game and score important goals makes him the favourite to start, although Pirates could still enter the market for another proven striker.
Whether the Buccaneers stick with this lineup or make further additions before the transfer window closes, they appear well-equipped to challenge for both domestic honours and the elusive CAF Champions League title next season.
Orlando Pirates’ season begins early August and the MTN8 will give fans a taste on what’s to come.
