Orlando Pirates need a new left-back, and Fawaaz Basadien is a prime candidate. Why is the Stellies man such a target?
Basadien has been doing the business for a few seasons
Left-back has been a problem position for Jose Riveiro. Although Deon Hotto is a super-dependable fan favourite, he’s not getting younger. Also, left full-back isn’t his preferred role. Stellies’ Fawaaz Basadien has made 36 appearances across all competitions. 19 of those have been in the league, with three goals and three assists. Former Chiefs youngster Omega Mdaka, still only 21, has also been heavily involved with 14 appearances across all competitions. If Stellies feel that Basadien wants to leave, they already have a replacement lined up, and he’s in their first XI already. Pirates could take advantage of the player’s apparent desire to move to Soweto.
Rhodes is also a target
The joker in the pack. Talk of Patrick Maswanganyi leaving the club continues to intensify, so it makes sense that the club might look for a new young playmaker. Cape Town City’s 21-year-old Jaedin Rhodes can operate in the number 10 role or in wide attacking positions. His potential arrival would add more youth, potency and fluidity to a front line already including Relebohile Mofokeng and Mohau Nkota. If City end up getting relegated this season, it’s inevitable they’ll be forced to sell their prized assets, and Rhodes is perhaps their most valuable.
Riveiro will leave with a lasting legacy at Orlando Pirates
Since joining the club in July 2022, the Vigo-born 49-year-old coach has become a firm favourite with fans. He’s overseen three MTN8 titles and two Nedbank Cups, although the Betway Premiership crown is still elusive. Pirates remain in the race, 15 points behind Sundowns but with four games in hand, so the league isn’t totally out of the question. They’re also well-placed to reach the Caf Champions League semis, holding a 1-0 aggregate lead against MC Alger heading into the second leg of the quarter-finals.  A second star would be a fitting way for Riveiro to bow out.
Would Rhodes and Basadien take Pirates to a new level?
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