Three Orlando Pirates players who should be given a fair chance

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Orlando Pirates have released four players to make space for more ahead of the new season.

The Buccaneers finished second in the Betway Premiership last season and also secured their third successive MTN8 title. Under Jose Riveiro, Pirates won five trophies in three seasons, but the Spaniard has since departed to join Egyptian giants Al Ahly.

Looking ahead to the 2025/26 season, the Buccaneers are without a coach and have released four players in the past weeks. With experienced players such as Makhehlene Makhaula, Olisa Ndah and Tapelo Xoki, Orlando Pirates still have experience and could build on next season.

With Mamelodi Sundowns competing in the FIFA Club World Cup, this is the perfect chance for the Soweto giants to go into the transfer market and sign top players around the continent. With more signings to come, the Buccaneers have to ensure they don’t release impact players.

Which players should Orlando Pirates hold on to?

Tshegofatso Mabasa

Mabasa only scored seven goals in the league last season. The 28-year-old striker needs to be backed ahead of Evidence Makgopa ahead of the new campaign. An in-form Mabasa is more lethal and can score atleast 15 goals in the league alone, given the right service and backing.

Thabiso Lebitso

Lebitso played 13 matches across all competitions in his debut season for the Buccaneers. He famously scored in the Soweto Derby against Kaizer Chiefs last year, helping his side to a 3-2 victory at the FNB Stadium. Unfortunately, injuries halted his season and forced him to watch from the sidelines.

This past season, Lebitso played just two matches and all his appearances came in the CAF Champions League. With Deano van Rooyen having secured the right-back position, Lebitso is a perfect replacement. He should feature more, given how many matches the Sea Robbers will play next season.

Karim Kimvuidi

Kimvuidi is no doubt one of the Orlando Pirates players who have impressed when making an appearance. The Congolese attacker only made eight league showing but many Bucs fans feel like he should be given a fair chance.