Irvin Khoza. Image: TSA
Orlando Pirates announce another big departure
The squad refinement continues and there’s no space for sentimentality.
Irvin Khoza. Image: TSA
Orlando Pirates continue to shape their squad for next season. Vincent Pule leaves the Buccaneers after six years of service.
Pule joins the Pirates exodus after some stellar service
Pule joined Pirates in 2018 from Wits a season after he won the title with the Clever Boys. In the six years that followed, he clocked up 146 appearances for Pirates with 23 goals and 12 assists. Pule became a bit-part player in recent seasons, with only 29 appearances in the last three completed league campaigns. Still, the versatile attacking midfielder was well-liked by his peers and fans alike. He followed Siyabonga Mpontshane, Richard Ofori, Kermit Erasmus, Thabang Monare and Fortune Makaringe out the door.
ORLANDO PIRATES STILL HAVE BUSINESS TO DO
According to SoccerLaduma, Pirates will unveil several new signings before heading to Europe for a pre-season tour. So far, they’ve announced one brand new player; winger Deivi Miguel Vieira aka Gilberto from Petro de Luanda. That publication expects Selaelo Rasebotja, Bayanda Thabethe, Thuso Moleleki and Ethan Visagie to follow suit shortly. 23-year-old Angolan star Gilberto arrives for R11 million and a big reputation. He operates on the right-hand side of the attack.
PLAYMAKER MOLELEKI TO JOIN THE PARTY
According to the reputable UnplayableZA on X, the skilful 24-year-old Thuso Moleleki will soon become an Orlando Pirates player. He’s impressed with NFD outfit Orbit College to the extent that Jose Riveiro and his staff are convinced he’ll add value to the Nedbank Cup winners. Last season was Orbit College’s first season in the second tier and they secured their stay there following an impressive debut campaign. Moleleki made one appearance in the Nedbank Cup last term. With the imminent arrival of Moleleki, Pirates’ options in the number 10 role have increased. Prodigiously gifted teenager Relebohile Mofokeng can easily operate there although he’s comfortable on the flanks too.
Kermit’s adventure ends on a sad note
The seasoned striker has spent stints in France, Portugal and the Netherlands before settling back into South African football in 2019. When he leaves Pirates at the end of the campaign, there won’t be a shortage of suitors to bring him on board. Where will he end up? There’s still plenty of value left in those old legs. The veteran made a teary appearance on the acclaimed Bucs Change Room TV series.
