Orlando Pirates star Monnapule Saleng in career freefall amid contract chaos.
Saleng’s once-promising fourth season at Orlando Pirates has turned into a frustrating nightmare. Instead of building on his earlier success, the attacking midfielder now finds himself sidelined, wrapped in a fog of contract uncertainty and career stagnation.
Contract stand-off leaves Saleng out in the cold
Saleng’s struggles began when contractual issues with Orlando Pirates came to light earlier this season. Despite kicking off the campaign with five goals and one assist in just 13 appearances, he has since disappeared from the pitch.
Insiders claim the 27-year-old feels underpaid, reportedly earning R70,000 a month—far below what his performances warrant. Whispers in the football world suggest he could walk away on a free transfer and join Kaizer Chiefs, despite rumors that Pirates have already triggered a two-year extension on his deal.
Whatever the truth, one thing is clear: Saleng is losing out.
“Saleng has sunk deep into the wilderness since his contractual issues at Pirates surfaced earlier this season.”
27 matches missed and counting: A star in limbo
Since his last appearance on December 7, 2024, against Al Ahly, Saleng has not featured in a single game. The Buccaneers have played 27 matches without him and are set to complete the season with six more, including Saturday’s high-stakes Nedbank Cup final, a stage where Saleng once thrived.
The absence has not only hurt his momentum but also threatens his market value. With over five months of competitive inactivity, Saleng’s worth is beginning to plummet.
Lone 2025 appearance: CHAN qualifier vs. Egypt
This year, Saleng has played just once—in a CHAN qualifiers home leg against Egypt, which ended in a 1-1 draw. That solitary cap marks a stark contrast to his breakout seasons with the Pirates.
In his first season back from loan at Moroka Swallows, Saleng exploded with 26 goal contributions. He scored the winner in the MTN8 final and assisted in the Nedbank Cup final, helping Pirates clinch silverware under Jose Riveiro’s debut campaign.
“He scored the winner in the MTN8 final and then provided an assist in the Nedbank Cup decider.”
Unless something changes dramatically, Saleng is on track to end the season with more questions than answers. His talent is undeniable, but as long as the contract standoff lingers, the spotlight will remain out of reach.
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Will we ever see Saleng again on the big stage?
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