Monnapule Saleng has been largely unsettled at Orlando Pirates this season for reasons undisclosed by him or the club.
Saleng has seen his game time drop drastically and there have been questions over his future at Pirates.
Saleng unsettled at Pirates
Previously a key player, Saleng has not even been at training on more than a few occasions this season. This has led to speculation over his off-field behaviour or a possible fall out with coach Jose Riveiro. Being a Pirates fan darling, the supporters have become divided on their opinion on the situation. Others want clarity on the situation before placing judgement. Others have already concluded that the rumours of a high salary demand are true and are labelling him greedy. While some are siding with the player saying that he should be backed more by Riveiro and the club management.
Saleng was left out of more than five games late last year, and was not training during that period. He made an impressive return to action against Al Ahly and played a few more games after. Then out of nowhere, he was dropped completely. There have been pictures of him visibly upset on the grandstand while his teammates celebrated a goal by the club. He has not made a match day squad in a while now and there could be even more bad news for him at Pirates.
Missed training again!
On Saturday, Pirates had their last training session before they take on Algerian side CR Belouizdad. It was reported by this publication that he was not present once again! This is very worrying news for Saleng and his situation at the Buccaneers. Earlier in the week, this publication reported that the tricky winger was back in training. This was ahead of their 1-0 loss against Cape Town City. Although he didn’t make that match day squad, there would’ve been hope that he would be back for the Belouizdad clash. But as it stands, it doesn’t seem like he will be there.
Should Chiefs take a chance?
There has also been speculation that arch rivals Kaizer Chiefs could be monitoring the situation. Although unlikely on the surface, so did a deal taking Thembinkosi Lorch from Pirates to rivals Mamelodi Sundowns this time last year. Also a talisman of the club at the time, the playmaker was having injury problems and saw his game time reduced upon return. It was also rumoured he had issues behind the scenes at the club.
Sundowns then strategically came in at the 11th hour of the window to tempt him and Pirates to sell. Buccaneers chairman Irvin Khoza gave in, swallowed his pride and sold to his rival. But what would’ve been key was the timing of the bid. It didn’t allow the chairman too much time to think. Lorch’s desire also played a huge role! Now can Chiefs use the same blueprint for Saleng?
Will this strategy get Khoza again?
Can Chiefs offer Pirates something they cannot refuse in the last minutes of the window? They would first need to ensure that Saleng wants to move across Soweto, so he can also push like Lorch. With that type of move, the ball will be left in the Buccaneers caught. What do you think of this strategy? Feel free to leave your thoughts and feelings in the comments below!
