Orlando Pirates have completed their 12th signing of the current transfer window, with Marumo Gallants winger Bheki Mabuza becoming the latest addition to Abdeslam Ouaddou’s revamped squad.
Mabuza’s arrival is particularly notable because the winger previously came through the Orlando Pirates development structure before leaving the club to continue his career elsewhere.
His performances for Marumo Gallants eventually put him back on the Buccaneers’ radar, paving the way for his return to Soweto.
Pirates reach 12 new arrivals
The signing of Mabuza underlines just how aggressively Pirates have approached the transfer market as Ouaddou continues to reshape his squad.
The Buccaneers have recruited across several positions, bringing in a mixture of established players, promising youngsters and returning talent.
One of the most notable recruitment trends has been Pirates’ business with Siwelele FC.
Pirates raid Siwelele FC
Pirates have added Ghampani Lungu, Neo Rapoo, Aphiwe Baliti and Bohlale Ngwato from Siwelele.
Lungu has already made an impact, earning the club’s Player of the Month award, while Rapoo provides another option at left-back.
Baliti has subsequently returned to Siwelele on loan to continue his development, while Ngwato adds further depth in the wide areas.
International reinforcements arrive
Pirates have also looked beyond South Africa to strengthen their squad.
Norwegian striker Sebastian Pedersen joined from Sogndal Fotball, adding physical presence and goalscoring ability to the attack. The forward is still working towards full match fitness.
Meanwhile, Mohau Nkota has returned to Pirates on loan from Saudi Arabian club Al-Ettifaq, giving Ouaddou another attacking option.
Midfield and defence also strengthened
The Buccaneers have made significant changes in midfield, signing Mthetheleli Mthiyane and Thapelo Mokobodi from Stellenbosch FC.
Matome Mmolai arrived from Leicesterford City, while Kabelo Kgositsile joined from Baroka FC.
Pirates have also strengthened their defence with the addition of Sbangani Zulu from Richards Bay.
Now, Mabuza has become the latest piece of Ouaddou’s growing squad puzzle.
Can Ouaddou turn 12 signings into trophies?
With 12 new arrivals now joining the senior squad, Pirates have made their ambitions clear.
The Buccaneers are assembling a squad designed to compete on multiple fronts, with domestic silverware and the CAF Champions League among the club’s major objectives.
However, recruitment is only the first step.
The biggest challenge for Ouaddou will be integrating so many new players and turning a dramatically reshaped squad into a cohesive team capable of challenging for trophies.
With 12 arrivals already through the door, the pressure will now shift from the transfer market to the pitch.
