Orlando Pirates are under immense pressure to address the news and situation with Monnapule Saleng after their squad depth weaknesses were brutally exposed in a crushing defeat to Mamelodi Sundowns.
The Buccaneers entered the season with hopes of challenging for the Betway Premiership title. However, their recent performance highlighted a glaring issue—depth. Competing for the league is not a sprint but a grueling marathon, and Pirates are now learning that lesson the hard way.
Sundowns’ strategy outshines Pirates’ limited options
Sundowns, who have dominated the league for the past seven years, showcased their tactical superiority. Their rotation strategy proved key to their success, with Iqraam Rayners, Thapelo Morena, Grant Kekana, Lucas Suarez, Jayden Adams, and Aubrey Modiba all starting with fresh legs. Adams, the only exception, made just his second start of the season.
Meanwhile, Pirates struggled with an unchanged lineup, playing three high-intensity matches within eight days. Their clashes against Kaizer Chiefs and Sekhukhune United drained their resources, leaving them exposed against a well-rested Sundowns side.
Head coach Jose Riveiro faced a difficult reality—he lacked the depth to rotate key players. Patrick Maswanganyi, Relebohile Mofokeng, and Thalente Mbatha remained in the starting eleven because viable replacements were absent. Despite their promising start to the season, Pirates failed their first real test of endurance and adaptability.
The Saleng mystery: Why is he missing?
Adding to the frustration is the unresolved case of Monnapule Saleng. Surprisingly, Pirates made no signings in the January transfer window, and Saleng’s continued absence has become a growing concern among fans. Many believe his return could feel like a new signing at a crucial stage in the campaign.
The left-footed attacker last played in early December, and the club has remained silent on his exclusion. His agent, Karabo Tshabuse of P Management Sports, offered no clarity when questioned about Saleng’s situation.
“I’m not in a position to comment on anything regarding my client at the moment,” Tshabuse stated as quoted by Kick Off. “Unfortunately, I’m not giving commentary on enquiries.”
Saleng’s statistics speak for themselves—13 appearances across all competitions, with five goals and one assist. Yet, he has featured in only three Betway Premiership matches. His absence remains a mystery, and Pirates’ failure to address it only fuels speculation.
Can Pirates recover before It’s too late?
As the season enters its crucial final stretch, Orlando Pirates must make urgent decisions. Will they reintegrate Saleng into the squad? Can they find internal solutions to their depth crisis? Or will their promising campaign fall apart due to poor squad management?
One thing is clear—the clock is ticking, and Pirates can’t afford any more missteps.
Stay tuned with The South African as the news involving Orlando Pirates situation with Saleng continues. What do you make of it?
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