The Big Clearance: Orlando Pirates Confirm 12 First-Team Departures

Orlando Pirates have officially initiated a massive squad overhaul ahead of the new Betway Premiership season, confirming the exit of 12 first-team players.

The radical rebuild at Mayfair features a mix of high-profile international transfers, domestic trades to rival clubs, and free-agent releases as the Buccaneers trim their roster for local and continental campaigns.

The Crown Jewel Export to Europe

The headline departure from the Soweto giants is undeniably Relebohile Mofokeng. The 21-year-old virtuoso completed a record-breaking European transfer to Belgian champions Royale Union Saint-Gilloise (USG), following in the proud footsteps of recent academy graduates transitioning to elite overseas leagues.

Overseas & Domestic Transfer Breakdown

The structural reshuffle includes tactical domestic shifts alongside an interesting move to the Middle East for a former star:

• The Iraq Destination: Midfielder Sipho Mbule has officially parted ways with the Sea Robbers to charter a new chapter with Zakho FC in Iraq.
• High-Profile Free Agent: Striker Tshegofatso Mabasa has officially left the club and currently remains unattached, instantly becoming one of the most lethal free-agent forwards on the domestic market.
• The Rival Strengthening: A high volume of talent has shifted to ambitious domestic rivals, with four players heading directly to Siwelele FC and Sekhukhune United.

The Complete List of Outgoing Buccaneers