Orlando Pirates have excelled on the pitch this campaign; however, several cracks have appeared behind the scenes.
The Monnapule Saleng saga resulted in a four-month standoff – December 7 was the last time he featured in Buccaneer’s threads.
Many believed an offseason exit to be inevitable, but after being spotted in successive training sessions this month, as Jose Riveiro heads into arguably his most crucial stretch – chasing three trophies – of his three-year stint, there’s renewed optimism about his return before the end of the season.
Mokwena next in line?
According to reports, Orlando Pirates thought to have wanted Pitso Mosimane originally, have Wydad Athletic manager Rulani Mokwena as their priority hiring.
“Yes, it’s true that Pitso’s name had come up in the management meetings and was the leading candidate to replace Riveiro, but that changed since Wydad announced that they will release Mokwena at the end of the season. He is now the leading candidate,” The Citizen revealed.
With the former Mamelodi Sundowns manager and Moroccan giants agreeing to part ways after the season, Pirates’ chances just got a whole lot better.
Amid limited depth in the left-back position, the Sea Robbers have promoted the promising Yanga Madiba.
“They have already made that decision. For now, it’s as good as done, and it’s believed to be a three-year contract which would apparently run from July this year until June 2028,” a Soccer Laduma report read.
“He is still young, and they want him to grow and gain experience while learning from the older players.”
Another source confirmed the news, saying, “Yes, there are other left backs that the club is looking at to sign but they need to have their own development players in the squad as well just like other youngsters and that’s why they have offered him a three-year contract which is as good as done which is good for both the club and the player.”
Who should Pirates sign in the offseason?
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