Orlando Pirates midfielders Daniel Msendami and Abdoulaye Mariko are facing an extended spell on the sidelines after Marumo Gallants reportedly failed to register the two players before the transfer deadline.
A frustrating situation has emerged for the Orlando Pirates duo, who joined Marumo Gallants on loan before the September transfer window closed.
However, their anticipated move to the Betway Premiership side has reportedly turned into a nightmare, with neither player eligible to represent Gallants because of an administrative registration error.
According to iDiski Times journalist Lorenz Kohler, Marumo Gallants missed the registration deadline for the two internationals, leaving both players unable to feature for the club until the next registration window opens in January.
The development represents a major setback for Msendami and Mariko, who were hoping to secure regular playing time away from the Buccaneers.
Msendami and Mariko face lengthy wait until January
The reported registration mistake means the Mali and Zimbabwe internationals will have to wait until January before their playing situations can potentially be resolved.
For players eager to gain valuable match fitness and competitive minutes, being sidelined for several months is far from ideal.
The situation is also an unwanted headache for Marumo Gallants, who are fighting to improve their position in the Betway Premiership.
The club has endured a difficult start to the campaign, suffering six defeats before finally registering its first league victory last Friday.
Gallants produced a dramatic 3-2 win over Siwelele FC, offering supporters some encouragement after a challenging run of results.
However, the inability to call upon the two loan signings leaves the club with fewer options as it attempts to climb away from the bottom end of the league standings.
Orlando Pirates have found quality replacements
While Msendami and Mariko remain caught up in the registration situation, Orlando Pirates appear to have found capable alternatives within their squad.
In midfield, Thapelo Mokobodi has been particularly impressive, contributing two goals and four assists in 14 appearances.
Mthetheleli Mthiyane has also provided valuable depth in a deeper midfield role, making 11 appearances for the Buccaneers.
The competition for places has therefore remained intense, with Pirates benefiting from the performances of players who have stepped up when opportunities have come their way.
Lungu and Kgositsile strengthen Pirates’ attacking options
In the positions associated with Msendami, Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has also enjoyed encouraging performances from Ghampani Lungu and Kabelo Kgositsile.
Lungu has been among the standout performers, recording four goals and one assist in 11 appearances.
Kgositsile has also made a contribution, registering two goals and one assist in the same number of matches.
Their performances suggest that Pirates have sufficient depth to manage the absence of the two loaned players, even as questions remain about their eventual return.
Orlando Pirates’ next five fixtures
The Buccaneers have a demanding schedule ahead as they look to maintain momentum across domestic and continental competitions.
According to the supplied fixture list, their next five matches are:
- 4 November 2026: Siwelele FC – Postponed
- 6 November 2026: Sekhukhune United
- 28 November 2026: Simba SC
- 28 November 2026: Lamontville Golden Arrows
- 5 December 2026: Stellenbosch FC
What happens next for the Pirates duo?
For now, Msendami and Mariko face an uncertain wait as they look towards the January registration window.
The reported administrative setback has disrupted their loan moves and denied them the opportunity to contribute to Gallants’ fight for improved league results.
Meanwhile, Orlando Pirates will continue focusing on their own campaign, with several squad members making the most of their opportunities.
Will Msendami and Mariko return to the Buccaneers in January, or will another loan arrangement be considered? Their next move will be one to watch as the transfer window approaches
