Orlando Pirates have reportedly signed Richards Bay striker Yanela Mbuthuma, who converted five goals in the league last season. The place of origin and scoring tally have raised concerns for ex-Buccaneer Moeneeb Josephs over the club’s signing of the 23-year-old.
“Why are we looking for players from clubs that are not above the top eight [small teams]? No offence to the player that we have signed,” Josephs told SoccerBeat.
“Look at how many goals he scored last season: he scored six goals in 27 games. However, no offence to him, but how many games did he start? So, that’s like one goal every six games, pardon me if my math is off.”
“But my mind is telling me that we should be looking at the big boys [from big clubs]. We should look inside the top eight teams because outside of the top eight, there’s nothing.”
Players out?
Meanwhile, the arrival of Abdeslam Ouaddou has Orlando Pirates fans wondering whether Monnapule Saleng will be willing to remain at the club. The 27-year-old is heavily linked with an offseason move, albeit no clubs currently showing interest.
The same can’t be said for Relebohile Mofokeng, who has several clubs interested including Al Ahly, and most recently, MLS side FC Cincinnati. Whether the 20-year-old wants to leave is another question, but if his father’s comments are anything to go by, it seems a winter exit is likely.
“My biggest wish is to see Rele overseas in 2025/2026. I’m praying every day. I don’t want to see him in the Betway Premiership again this season. I know God will answer my prayers.”
“[Whether it’s in] Spain, England, Netherlands, France, Denmark, Switzerland — Rele can play. I believe that with all my heart. Take him to Barcelona? He can play. PSG? He can play. Any country. I’ll be happy — but not Saudi Arabia,” he added.
“Not yet. He’s still young. He needs to compete in UEFA competitions. If he goes to Saudi now, he won’t experience that. Yes, he’d be rich — but happiness is more important. You can have all the money in the world, but if you’re not happy, it’s worthless.”
Should Orlando Pirates try keep Saleng?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
Subscribe to The South African website’s newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
