They call him the Master Chef. Orlando Pirates will compete in next season’s Betway Premiership with Sipho Mbule as one of the new options in central midfield.
The 27-year-old from Bethlehem, Free State, was available on a free transfer after Mamelodi Sundowns opted against a contract renewal on his expired deal.
According to reports, Mbule lost his place at Sundowns after he had reported for training under the influence of alcohol.
His agent, Mike Makaab, soon offered Mbule to Kaizer Chiefs, but Amakhosi seemingly took too long to make a decision.
ORLANDO PIRATES SNAP UP SIPHO MBULE
Kaizer Chiefs news: Amakhosi money and another star from Europe
While many were still anticipating Amakhosi’s decision, the Buccaneers astounded the nation via X, Facebook and Instagram on Wednesday: “Orlando Pirates is pleased to welcome Sipho Mbule to the Club,” the short statement ended.
Orlando Pirates news: Sipho Mbule and a special meeting
JUNIOR KHANYE REACTS
According to Khanye, whose playing career was cut short due to the same ill-discipline with alcohol, Mbule should realise he is a lucky man.
Khanye feels that the new Orlando Pirates midfielder, given the due commitment and discipline, has the talent to make the Bafana Bafana squad for Afcon 2025.
“Let me be honest, I’m surprised, and he is very lucky,” said Khanye on iDiski TV. “But he must know one thing, this is a last chance he has now because we have seen players previously at the club who have had the same problems, and they got rid of them.
“Even though fans loved them, the club got rid of them and their careers ended. If you leave Orlando Pirates under such a cloud, it’s over.
“Mbule is so lucky, and he must thank his ancestors, God and age for being on his side. He really needs to understand that he is done if anything happens with him at Orlando Pirates.
“I compliment his God-given talent. The boy is one of the best, one of the most talented players, and I cannot wait to see him play with [Patrick] Maswanganyi, Relebohile Mofokeng, [Mohau] Nkota and [Tshegofatso] Mabasa.
“It’s his last chance and if he trains properly, get game time he may even go to the AFCON if he gets his act together,” Khanye concluded.
DO YOU AGREE WITH KHANYE ON WHAT MBULE CAN DELIVER AT ORLANDO PIRATES?
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