JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA — Shortly after sending shockwaves through the local football fraternity with a surprise move to the Middle East, mercurial midfielder Sipho Mbule has officially broken his silence. The 28-year-old playmaker took to social media to pen an emotional, heartfelt goodbye to the Orlando Pirates technical team, management, and the iconic Ghost fanbase.
Mbule hits the international market as a free agent after the Buccaneers opted against activating a contract extension at Mayfair, closing the curtains on a brief but incredibly trophy-laden spell in black and white.
“Filled with Happy Moments” — Mbule’s Farewell
Reflecting on his single-season stint under Jose Riveiro, “The Master Chef” chose to look past the post-AFCON dip in game time, focusing instead on the immense pride of helping the Sea Robbers capture a historic domestic treble.
Taking to his social media handles, Mbule shared his parting thoughts:
“Thanks for the year that was filled with happy moments than sad moments. Till we meet again. To Orlando Pirates fans, thanks for everything; for the love, for the noise & the belief.”
Sipho Mbule’s Short & Sweet Mayfair Footprint
| Metric | 2025/26 Campaign Stats | Key Achievements |
| Appearances | 23 Matches (All Comps) | Key midfield general during the first half of the season. |
| Goals | 1 Goal | Dictated tempo in crucial domestic cup matches. |
| Silverware | 3 Domestic Trophies | Crucial squad depth driving Pirates to an iconic Treble. |
| National Impact | Bafana Bafana Recall | Earned a prestigious call-up for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). |
Clearing the Headspace in the Iraq Stars League
The Bethlehem-born midfield architect has officially put pen to paper on a one-year contract with Iraqi Stars League heavyweights Zakho FC. It brings an end to a roller-coaster domestic career that saw him represent SuperSport United, Mamelodi Sundowns, Sekhukhune United, and Orlando Pirates.
While undeniable generational talent has always been at his feet, off-field consistency issues unfortunately derailed his momentum, eventually costing him a spot in Hugo Broos’ historic 2026 FIFA World Cup squad currently preparing for Canada tonight.
Stepping away from the relentless local media pressure cooker, a clean slate at the 20,000-capacity Zakho International Stadium provides the ultimate tactical reset. If Mbule can find his footing in Iraq, it won’t be long before the senior national selectors have to look his way once again.
