Orlando Pirates are heading to Spain for their pre-season training having signed nine players.
Under new coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, the Buccaneers are looking like a team to beat in the 2025/26 Betway Premiership season. Last campaign was a bit of a disappointment for the Soweto giants as they only collected the MTN8.
It will be interesting how Ouaddou will lineup his squad given he had a say in bringing some of the new players. Young players like Mohau Nkota, Simphiwe Selepe and Boitumelo Radiopane excelled under former Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro but they might not enjoy gametime if the new coach is not impressed with them.
Which Orlando Pirates players could miss out on selection?
One of the Bucs players who impressed last season was Thabiso Sesane. The young defender was sidelined due to injury in February. He looked solid and compossed at the back and was one of the reason the team was fighting for the CAF Champions League and Betway Premiership.
According to Soccer Laduma, Sesane has responded well to the rehabilitation programme and could return to Orlando Pirates first team around December.
“He’s been doing everything asked of him in terms of recovery, and the signs are promising. He might not start the new season, but the feeling is that he could be available before the halfway mark,” said a source close to the club.
What’s happening with Saleng at Orlando Pirates?
Saleng hasn’t featured since December but could be given a fresh opportunity to impress under the new coach. His future at the club remains uncertain. He could join rivals Kaizer Chiefs or look elsewhere if he decides to jump ship.
Orlando Pirates will play a number of friendly matches in Spain during their pre-season camp. Some of the new players will get a chance to impress and get used to their new teammates.
Which players should Pirates release?
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