Orlando Pirates transfer wrap: THREE out, ZERO in
Thoughts?
Orlando Pirates supporters have plenty to look forward to for the rest of the campaign even though no new players were purchased in January.
Orlando Pirates release a trio of stars
Central defender Sandile Mthethwa was the first exit to AmaZulu.
“Orlando Pirates Football Club can confirm the departure of defender Sandile Mthethwa,” the club stated. “Both parties have agreed to the amicable separation to allow him to move to a club of his choice. At 27 years old Mthethwa is entering his prime and whilst the technical team wanted him to stay – the guarantee of regular football was not possible. Mthethwa joined the club in 2016 as a young boy having been spotted at an annual youth tournament in KZN.
Wingers Gilberto and Otladisa also shown the door
Katlego Otladisa has left for Sekhukhune United on loan. Days prior, Gilberto returned to his former club Petro de Luanda until the end of the season.
“The Club can also confirm that it has reached an agreement with Sekhukhune United for the services Katlego Otladisa,” Orlando Pirates said. “The 28-year-old moves across to Babina Noko on a loan deal for the remainder of the 2024/25 season.”
Winger Gilberto arrived for R11.5 million at the start of the campaign. He’s struggled to impose himself on South African football. The 23-year-old moves back to his former club for the remainder of the 2024-2025 campaign. He’s only managed 12 appearances for the club this term, including five in the league, with zero goals and zero assists.
“Orlando Pirates has reached an agreement for the loan transfer of Angolan international Gilberto to Petro de Luanda for the remainder of the season.
“The move sees Gilberto return to his hometown club, pending the successful completion of a medical.”
Sibisi returns from suspension
In Pirates’ relatively comfortable 3-1 win at Richards Bay in the Nedbank Cup, regular number one goalkeeper Sipho Chaine sat the game out. He’s one booking away from a suspension so Pirates had one eye on the Soweto Derby in this regard. Nkosinathi Sibisi missed the clash at Bay through suspension but he should return against Kaizer Chiefs in place of Tapelo Xoki who ably deputized for the 29-year-old Durban-born star. There’s seriously healthy competition for places in the heart of defence for Jose Riveiro.
Click for our predicted Pirates XI in the Derby
Are you happy with the club’s January business?
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