Baloni challenges Teboho Mokoena of Mamelodi Sundowns during the DStv Premiership 2023/24 match between Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns on the 20 September 2023 at Orlando Stadium in Soweto © Sydney Mahlangu/BackpagePix
Orlando Pirates midfielder to make way for new signing?
Pirates are reported to be already planning for next season, and there is one midfielder facing an exit door despite only arriving in 2023.
Baloni challenges Teboho Mokoena of Mamelodi Sundowns during the DStv Premiership 2023/24 match between Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns on the 20 September 2023 at Orlando Stadium in Soweto © Sydney Mahlangu/BackpagePix
Orlando Pirates midfielder Siphelo Baloni could find himself out of the club ahead of the new season following the arrival of Thalente Mbatha.
Also read | Lorch: What jersey number will the attacker wear at Sundowns?
Also read | Komphela on his Swallows future: ‘I’m watching this movie unfold’
Mbatha recently joined the Sea Robbers from SuperSport United, and that has cast doubt on the future of Baloni at the club.
Baloni, himself, is relatively new to Pirates having joined them at the start of the season from the now defunct All Stars FC.
Also read | Lorch: How Sundowns signed star attacker from Pirates
He has found it very difficult to dislodge both Thabang Monare and Miguel Timm in central midfield, and Soccer Laduma reports he could be loaned out.
Pirates have had to let go of Siphesihle Ndlovu and loan out Goodman Mosele to Chippa United for the current season.
Also read | Kaizer Chiefs Sporting Director reacts to trio’s new deals
Must read | Kaizer Chiefs extend goalkeeper’s contract until 2026
And if Mosele returns for the new season, not only Baloni could find himself loaned out for the upcoming campaign.
Also read | Khanye names two Bafana Bafana stars who deserve Euro deals
ORLANDO PIRATES COULD CONSIDER LOANING OUT BALONI?
“The club is already planning for next season. They want to be ready with the players they need when they start the season, and that’s why they are set to loan Baloni,” said a source known to the publication.
“They want him to gain experience as they gave him the chance to play some games but they feel he needs more game time in order to play regularly at Pirates.
“So, for now, a loan move for next season is imminent, and it’s as good as done,” added the source.
Also read | Kaizer Chiefs fan-favourite signs new deal
Also read | Nedbank Cup Last 32: Fixtures, dates and venues confirmed
BALONI HAS BEEN USED SPARINGLY BY JOSE RIVEIRO
Since his arrival at the start of the season, Baloni has been used sparingly by Pirates coach Jose Riveiro.
Also read | Darren Keet commits to Cape Town City
Also read | Ex-Kaizer Chiefs star returns to Europe after stint in the US
The 24-year-old midfielder has, so far, featured in just 11 matches across all competitions, and mostly from the bench.
