Orlando Pirates have added another attacking option to their squad, with former academy player Bheki Mabuza returning to the Buccaneers after an impressive spell at Marumo Gallants.
The 23-year-old winger has completed a permanent move back to Pirates after spending time away from the club and establishing himself in the Betway Premiership.
Mabuza was previously part of the Pirates DStv Diski Challenge setup, where he shared the pitch with players such as Mohau Nkota and Relebohile Mofokeng.
His move to Marumo Gallants gave him the opportunity to test himself at senior level — and he appears to have made the most of it.
Mabuza earns his Pirates return
Mabuza leaves Gallants after making 35 appearances across all competitions, scoring three goals and registering one assist.
His performances were enough to convince his former club that he has developed sufficiently to return to the Buccaneers and compete for a place in the senior squad.
Pirates confirmed that the winger has joined on a permanent transfer, with Daniel Msendami and Abdoulaye Mariko heading in the opposite direction on loan as part of the agreement.
In announcing the deal, Pirates highlighted Mabuza’s development during his time away from the club and said his performances at Gallants had convinced them he was ready for the next stage of his career.
The move represents a full-circle moment for the youngster, who now gets another opportunity to prove himself at one of South Africa’s biggest clubs.
Another attacking option for Pirates
Mabuza’s arrival adds even more competition to an already talented Pirates squad.
The Buccaneers have increasingly invested in young players, with several academy graduates and emerging stars pushing for regular first-team opportunities.
Mabuza will now have to fight for his place, but his experience in the Betway Premiership should put him in a stronger position than when he first left the club.
The big question is whether he can turn his return into consistent first-team football.
With Pirates competing on multiple fronts, opportunities should come — but competition for places at the Buccaneers is fierce.
Can Mabuza make the jump this time?
His return gives Mabuza another chance to make his mark at Pirates.
The winger has already shown that he can perform at senior level. Now, the challenge is to replicate that form at Orlando Stadium and convince the coaching staff that he deserves regular minutes.
Will Bheki Mabuza become a regular for Orlando Pirates, or will he struggle to break into the star-studded squad?
