Today’s Orlando Pirates rumour wrap takes a look at life after Jose Riveiro and a pair of new youngsters in the mix.
Will Mabasa get a new lease on life after Riveiro leaves?
Tshegofatso Mabasa was a substitute against Chiefs in the Nedbank Cup final. When big games roll around, you can usually see what a manager’s preferred XI is, and Mabasa often misses out on those grand occasions. With the club braced for offers to sign 24-year-old Evidence Makgopa, whose value is higher, Mabsasa might see a long-term future at Pirates. That didn’t seem so likely three months ago.
Is this the best Orlando Pirates XI after Riveiro leaves?
Other player who might be in the same boat
Nemtajela to replace Makhaula?
It’s unlikely that wholesale changes will be made to a settled, predominantly young squad. However, there are a couple of key areas needing improvement. 24-year-old Marumo Gallants midfield general Masindi Nemtajela is seen as a natural successor to the impressive but ageing Makhehlene Makhaula.
Dansin gets a taste of the senior setup
17-year-old DDC skipper Cemran Dansin was on the bench against Golden Arrows.
Orlando Pirates star ‘Ben 10’ has a squad number
Wearing the number 47 jersey, Simphiwe Selepe has made his full Betway premiership debut for the Buccaneers. His debut for the club came not long ago, as a substitute against Kaizer Chiefs earlier this month. DDC youngster Cemran Dansin, still just 17, was also named in the matchday squad, which beat Golden Arrows 3-0. The goals came courtesy of Tshegofatso Mabasa, Bandsile Shandu and Kabelo Dlamini.
Scroll through this article for a player bio on Number 47, Simphiwe Selepe
Will Pirates regret letting Jose Riveiro go?
Let us know by leaving a comment below or sending a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211. Also, subscribe to The South African website’s newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.Â
