The Monnapule Saleng and Orlando Pirates saga could finally be over if the latest update proves to be true.
Saleng last played for Pirates in December 2024 with no release explanation given for his absence at the time.
Saleng-Pirates saga coming to an end?
There have been many rumours about Saleng’s situation with Pirates, with the club and his management both releasing statements. Initial rumours were that the winger was denied a lucrative opportunity abroad a couple of years back. It was also recently claimed that Egyptian giants Al Ahly had agreed a deal to sign him from the Buccaneers. That deal hitting a snag saw him disgruntled and missing training.
In March Saleng returned to action for the first time in 2025, having being sidelined by Pirates. His first bit of football came courtesy of Bafana Bafana, an impressive 90 minute outing against Egypt. This in a 1-1 draw in the African Nations Championship qualifiers first leg. However, the player did not make the squad for the second leg in Egypt the next weekend.
There had also been rumours that Saleng had signed a pre-contract with Pirates’ arch rivals Kaizer Chiefs. Rumours of his exit were also fuelled by his absence as the Buccaneers resumed pre-season training. Furthermore, he was not spotted as the team departed for their pre-season camp of Spain last night.
But earlier on Tuesday this publication reported that Saleng was set to join up with Pirates in Spain later this week. But now according to the latest from SABC Sport, he is set to be loaned out to Orbit College.
Set to be loaned out to Orbit College
“SABC Sport has established that Orlando Pirates are in advanced discussions to loan out winger Monnapule Saleng to their Betway Premiership rivals. It’s understood talks are ongoing between the Soweto giants and newly promoted outfit Orbit College to help revive the players’ career. To help him find his feet again, SABC Sport has been informed that Saleng is edging closer to a loan spell at Orbit College, who were promoted to the Premier Soccer League topflight last month.” Wrote the publication.
How do you feel about this Buccaneers?
Pirates fans how do you feel about Saleng going on loan to Orbit College? Is it for the best? Or is it for the best to cut ties permanently? Let us know by clicking on the comment tab. Or by emailing info@thesouthafrican.com or sending a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. You can also follow @TheSAnews on X and The South African on Facebook for the latest news.
