Orlando Pirates aren't wasting any time. Fresh off winning the league, the Buccaneers have announced four new signings and five departures as they build for next season.
The club confirmed the arrivals of Mthetheleli Mthiyane from Stellenbosch FC, Sbangani Zulu from Richards Bay, and Bohale Ngwato and Ghampani Lungu from Siwelele. All four deals were announced on the official Pirates website after weeks of speculation.
But the news also comes with goodbyes. Five players are leaving the club after their contracts expired. The biggest name on that list is Tshegofatso Mabasa, a former Golden Boot winner who scored 16 league goals in the 2023-24 season. He leaves after falling out of favour under coach José Riveiro.
Another notable exit is Sipho Mbule. The midfielder joined Pirates just a year ago from Mamelodi Sundowns but struggled to make an impact. In 12 appearances, he registered zero goals and zero assists. His time at the club ends quietly.
Bandile Shandu also departs after several seasons as a reliable squad player. The right-back made over 80 appearances for the club and was part of the team that won the Nedbank Cup and MTN8. Karim Kimvuidi and Deivi Miguel Vieira, known as Gilberto, are the other two leaving.
The club released a statement thanking each player. “Each of the players departs having contributed to the Orlando Pirates journey in their own way, and the Club would like to place on record its appreciation for their service during their time with the Buccaneers,” the statement read.
Pirates will need to replace that experience. Mabasa's departure leaves a hole up front, especially after he scored crucial goals in the title run-in. Mbule's exit was expected given his lack of game time, but Shandu's versatility will be missed.
The four new signings suggest the club is looking to refresh the squad with younger talent. Mthiyane impressed at Stellenbosch with his dribbling and pace on the wing. Zulu was a key figure in Richards Bay's survival fight. Ngwato and Lungu come from Siwelele, a club that plays in the lower divisions, so they're likely ones for the future.
Pirates are preparing to defend their PSL title for the first time since the 2011-12 season. They won the league in May after a dramatic final day, edging out Mamelodi Sundowns. The new signings will join the squad for pre-season training in July.
For the departing players, the next step is unclear. Mabasa is likely to attract interest from other PSL clubs. Mbule may need to rebuild his career after a difficult year. Shandu should find a new home easily given his experience.
Pirates fans will be watching closely. The club has a history of big squad overhauls after title wins. This one isn't any different. The new season starts in August.