Orlando Pirates have made significant changes to the squad that has enjoyed remarkable success over the past four seasons.
Under Jose Riveiro, the Buccaneers won five trophies in three seasons, while Abdeslam Ouaddou followed that up by guiding the club to a treble in his first campaign in charge.
Ouaddou, however, inherited a strong squad built by Riveiro. He benefited from an established system, quality players and a winning culture, which made his transition into the job considerably easier.
After a difficult start to his tenure, the Moroccan eventually found the right formula. He initially relied heavily on new signings, starting his first two league matches with several of them, before reverting to more experienced players.
Orlando Pirates have been successful over the years
The 2026/27 season has brought another major overhaul, with Pirates bringing in nine new players while releasing several fan favourites.
With the CAF Champions League also on the horizon, some supporters fear that too many changes could disrupt the harmony and winning culture that has been built at the club.
The Buccaneers have made a winning start to the season, but they are yet to produce a truly convincing performance. None of the new signings have consistently stood out either.
Players such as Thabiso Sesane, Thabiso Lebitso and Tshegofatso Mabasa could have provided Ouaddou with valuable options as Pirates chase a second CAF Champions League star.
But what would Orlando Pirates’ best starting XI look like if the recently released players were still available?
Melusi Buthelezi
Buthelezi would take his place between the sticks if Sipho Chaine was injured.
Thabiso Lebitso
Lebitso’s versatility and work rate would make him a useful option at right-back, particularly in a team that needs defensive stability and attacking support from its full-backs. He always delivered when needed.
Olisa Ndah
Ndah’s strength, composure and experience would make him one of the first names in the centre of defence.
Thabiso Sesane
Sesane would partner Ndah at centre-back. His physical presence and ability to defend aggressively would complement Ndah well.In some games where Nkosinathi Sibisi and Lebone Seema needed to be rested, these duo would have taken over.
Bandile Shandu
Shandu’s versatility could have been utilised in defence especially at left-back.
Phillip Ndlondlo
Ndlondlo would add technical quality and composure in midfield, helping Pirates control possession and dictate the tempo. With Thalente Mbatha out, he would have stepped in.
Orlando Pirates have a solid mifield
Miguel Timm
Timm’s experience and work rate would provide balance alongside Ndlondlo, particularly in a midfield expected to compete domestically and in Africa. Orlando Pirates though have the midfield position covered.
Monnapule Saleng
Saleng’s pace, creativity and ability to beat defenders would give Pirates a dangerous attacking outlet. With Relebohile Mofokeng gone, he would added more spark on the attack especially on the right where the Buccaneers struggled.
Vincent Pule
Pule’s experience and technical ability would add another creative dimension to the attack.Just like Timm, he wouldn’t be needed given the quality in the left wing position.
Thembinkosi Lorch
Lorch’s versatility and attacking quality would make him a major threat in the final third.
Tshegofatso Mabasa
Mabasa would lead the line. His physical presence and ability to occupy defenders could give Orlando Pirates a different dimension in attack.
Orlando Pirates Best XI of recently released players
Melusi Buthelezi
Thabiso Lebitso – Olisa Ndah – Thabiso Sesane – Bandile Shandu
Phillip Ndlondlo – Miguel Timm
Monnapule Saleng – Vincent Pule – Thembinkosi Lorch
Tshegofatso Mabasa
