Orlando Pirates target: ‘Leaving Kaizer Chiefs was disappointing’ 

Orlando Pirates are already planning for the next season, with both incomings and outgoings in focus.

Pirates made a number of signings during the off-season, as well as the January transfer window.

They signed  Melusi Buthelezi from TS Galaxy, Siphelo Baloni from All Stars FC and Katlego Otladisa from Marumo Gallants. They were joined by Karim Kimvuidi, Lesedi Kapinga and Patrick Maswanganyi. Then in January, Pirates added the duo of Thabiso Lebitso and Thalenthe Mbatha. In January, stalwart Thembinkosi Lorch and Bienvenu Eva Nga both left the club for Mamelodi Sundowns and Chippa United respectfully. 

Those players are expected to be followed out of the exit door by a few more, in the coming window. The likes of Zakhele Lepasa, Souaibou Marou, Sandile Mthethwa, among those touted for an exit. Pirates have also been linked with some incomings with the latest being TS Galaxy midfielder Thato Khiba. With interest in another Kaizer Chiefs youth product Darrel Matsheke cooling, they have turned their attention to him.

Khiba, however, still remembers how he felt when he was released from Chiefs.

Khiba disappointed by Chiefs exit

“Yes, I was disappointed, but it also gave me some motivation to go out there and work harder. It also helped me to add more skills and knowledge of the game so that if ever I get an opportunity to play for the club again, I come back stronger and wiser. This also inspired my form, and the healthy competition within the players in teams I have been playing for. It developed the willingness to succeed in my career.” Said Khiba to FARPost. 

Pirates and SuperSport interested?

There are rumours that Chiefs could return for Khiba but mainly Pirates and SuperSport United are front runners. He has been a revelation for Galaxy this season, scoring two goals and laying two assists in 11 appearances. It now remains to be seen if he will be allowed to leave the club for greener pastures at the end of the season.