Fresh off reclaiming their domestic crown, Orlando Pirates are wastefully leaving no room for complacency. Under the tactical guidance of head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, the Buccaneers have initiated a massive, high-stakes squad overhaul ahead of the 2026/27 season—confirming the departure of a dozen players while welcoming seven fresh recruits to the stable.
From blooding highly rated youngsters to clearing out established veterans, the reigning champions are completely transforming their look.
The Transfer Tracker: Who is In & Who is Out?
The 12 Departures (OUT)
The clearout is headlined by the blockbuster European transfer of teenage wizard Relebohile Mofokeng to Belgian club Royale Union Saint-Gilloise, alongside key attacking assets and squad depth:
- Thabiso Sesane, Selaelo Rasebotja, Siyabonga Ndlozi, Gomolemo Khoto, Sonwabo Khumalo, Blessing Ngiba, Seth Green, Thabiso Lebitso, Bandile Shandu, Sipho Mbule, Tshegofatso Mabasa, and Relebohile Mofokeng.
The 7 New Signings (IN)
To fill the vacuum, the Buccaneers have added versatility, steel, and youthful energy across all departments:
- Mthetheleli Mthiyane (Stellenbosch FC), Sbangani Zulu, Bohlale Ngwato, Ghampani Lungu (SuperSport United), Neo Rapoo (SuperSport United), Aphiwe Baliti, and Matome Mmolai.
The Rumor Mill & Internal Gems
While the squad transitions, fan interest remains laser-focused on finding the ultimate playmaker. The choice is polarizing:
- The R20 Million Target: Will Pirates break the bank for Cape Town City’s 17-year-old sensation Emile Witbooi?
- The Homegrown Candidate: Can 21-year-old internal gem Camran Dansin claim the spotlight as the natural successor to the number 10 throne?
Global Stage: Lionel Messi Faces England in Historic World Cup Semifinal
While the PSL prepares for kick-off, the global football stage is set to explode. Spain has comfortably secured their spot in Sunday’s final, leaving Argentina and England to battle out the remaining slot.
In what is set to be a legendary football moment, Lionel Messi is poised to earn his historic 206th international cap—remarkably facing the Three Lions on the pitch for the first time in his legendary career.
