Orlando Pirates need to make five big signings next season to give themselves a good chance of winning the league.
Earlier this season, it looked like the Buccaneers were on course to win their first Betway Premiership title in 13 years, but inconsistency and a lack of quality signings saw the team fall short. Under Jose Riveiro, Orlando Pirates won their first seven league matches, but suffered three defeats in their next seven league matches saw their title charge fade away slowly.
With Riveiro gone, it looks more likely that the Sea Robbers might struggle somewhat based on their recent match. Several players are set to leave the club at the end of the season, which will force Irvin Khoza to splash money.
Which players can win the league for Orlando Pirates?
Fiston Mayele
The Congolese striker played a huge role in Riveiro fast-tracking his departure from Pirates. The 30-year-old scored a brace in Pyramids’ 3-2 aggregate win over the Buccaneers in the CAF Champions League semi-final.
The Sea Robbers lack a quality finisher and Mayele is the man who might help them solve their goal-scoring problems.
Orlando Pirates have not won the league in 13 years
Fawaaz Basadien
The 28-year-old quality left-back could be a perfect replacement for Innocent Maela, who is set to leave the club after eight years. Basadien can score and is solid at the back. Playing alongside the likes of Mbekezeli Mbokazi and Nkosinathi Sibisi, the Stellenbosch FC star can be a valuable asset to the Buccaneers.
Oswin Appolis
With Relebohile Mofokeng set to leave the South African league, Orlando Pirates will need a perfect replacement. Appollis have been linked with rivals Kaizer Chiefs but the Buccaneers might want to hijack the move and bring the 23-year-old to Parktown.
Feisal Salum
If Orlando Pirates can bring in Salum, then there is no doubt that they will be crowned league champions next season. The Tanzanian maestro will flourish playing alongside Tito Maswanganyi and Kabelo Dlamini.
Sphephelo Sithole
Yaya has been linked with Chiefs but Pirates can lure the young midfielder into joining the 2025 CAF CL semi-finalists.
Orlando Pirates could be five signings away from claiming their first league title in 13 years. Can the Bucs strike back after losing Riveiro? only time will tell.
Who should Pirates sign next season?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1
Subscribe to The South African website’s newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
