Mystery at Orlando Pirates as missing stars spark outrage. Pirates have been thrust into controversy following the unexplained absences of Patrick Maswanganyi and Monnapule Saleng during critical CAF Champions League matches.
Former winger Lebohang Mokoena didn’t hold back, condemning the players and coach Jose Riveiro for failing to prioritize the team’s success.
Maswanganyi’s absence in pivotal matches against Al Ahly and Stade d’Abidjan has left fans and analysts baffled. Suspicion deepened after coach Jose Riveiro failed to provide a clear explanation during his post-match press conference. Riveiro vaguely cited health issues, saying Maswanganyi was unavailable for selection. However, the midfielder’s presence at the stadium during the Al Ahly match only fueled speculation.
Adding to the drama, Saleng, who had shone brightly against the Egyptian giants, was also left out of the squad for the game against Stade d’Abidjan. His absence came after he was previously sidelined for the clash with CR Belouizdad.
Discipline in question
“I’ll talk about Tito and Saleng. They know they are key to the team, so whatever issue or reason that may affect them, they should just put it aside, think about that badge!” Mokoena emphasized this during an interview on the SoccerBeat YouTube channel.
“Say, you know what, I’m here to make history at this club. But these boys… one back page, one interview, now I come late, I’m sleeping late. Now, I answer the coach back. The coach has always protected the players.”
Call for leadership and accountability
Mokoena didn’t stop at the players; he also criticized Riveiro for not taking a firmer stance.
“Internally as a coach, he would probably hammer some of the players. I think coach Riveiro must just step it up a bit, especially with the players he knows he needs. We don’t have senior guys who can call players in and say, ‘You’re disrupting the team!’ That’s why you see performances like this, the team struggling to score,” Mokoena lamented.
The bigger picture
This controversy highlights deeper issues within the Orlando Pirates squad. The absence of strong leadership and apparent lack of discipline could jeopardize their CAF Champions League campaign. Fans will hope for swift resolutions to ensure the team’s focus remains on the pitch, where it matters most.
Stay tuned with The South African as mystery at Orlando Pirates spark outrage.
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