Nobody knows what happens next with Monnapule Saleng and Orlando Pirates. If he leaves, several stars could benefit.
Deon Hotto gets a Pirates lifeline?
Namibian utility man Deon Hotto is a ‘Swiss Army Knife’ type of player, thriving in several roles and systems. The 34-year-old is widely expected to leave the club at the end of this current campaign, but the club’s stance might change dramatically soon. The veteran has repeatedly been trusted in a right-sided inverted attacking midfield role in recent matches, a departure from his now-customary left-back slot. Hotto will almost certainly extend his current deal to provide backup and a reliable rotation option for the talented Nkota if Saleng leaves. Pirates’ Mr Reliable scored and assisted in their most recent 2-1 win away to Sekhukhune; clear evidence of his importance to the cause.
Like Özil at Arsenal, Saleng peaked and started slowly fading
There’s no doubt World Cup winner Mesut Özil enjoyed a stellar career, delighting fans with sublime and subtle touches; he can point to the 2015-2016 Premier League season where he peaked, supplying a stunning 19 assists for an excellent Arsenal side. Saleng scored 15 and assisted 11 across all competitions in 2022-2023 as he reached his pinnacle. Steady declines for both players followed, however.
Why is Hotto such a valuable player?
The importance of evergreen star Deon Hotto Kavendji isn’t lost on the Pirates supporters. The Namibian always delivers what his manager wants and does so in several positions. Mostly utilized on the left-hand side of the defence in recent years after cutting his teeth as a left winger, Hotto has also been deployed in a right-sided attacking role in Caf Champions League clashes this term. Hotto, a star for Namibia at Afcon 2023, has been a rock-solid operator down the left-hand side of the Pirates team.
Versatility is a gift and rare trait
Equally adept in defence or midfield, he’s a manager’s dream. The vastly-experienced star has 65 caps and 10 goals for his country. Last season he made 27 league appearances with a goal and five assists. This term, he’s already chalked up 12 Betway Prem outings with two goals and four assists. His goal and assist in their most recent win against Sekhukhune saw him rightly named man of the match.
If he leaves, there will be a gaping hold in the squad to fill.
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