The single sharpest fact is that Orlando Pirates have just over three weeks to finalize their preparations for the defence of their Betway Premiership title. The Buccaneers are currently in Spain for their pre-season training camp, where they will face several opponents as they fine-tune their squad ahead of the new campaign.
Orlando Pirates have already strengthened their squad with seven new signings, while the club has also been linked with highly rated youngster Emile Witbooi and Polokwane City right-back Thabang Matuludi. Despite their busy transfer window, there are still a couple of areas that could benefit from further reinforcements.
Players Orlando Pirates could sign Thabang Matuludi With Thabiso Lebitso and Bandile Shandu no longer at the club, Pirates are short of options at right-back. Matuludi has established himself as one of the most consistent full-backs in the Betway Premiership and could provide both quality and depth in the position. The 26-year-old has impressed for Polokwane City with his defensive solidity and ability to contribute going forward, making him a logical target for the Buccaneers.
Peter Shalulile Former Mamelodi Sundowns striker Peter Shalulile is currently a free agent after leaving the Tshwane giants. While Orlando Pirates already possess attacking quality, Shalulile’s experience, movement and proven goalscoring record could add another dimension to the team’s frontline. This winning mentality and familiarity with the demands of South African football could prove invaluable as Pirates look to retain their league crown and compete on multiple fronts.
The Buccaneers could also sign ex-Downs star Percy Tau, who is also a free agent. It remains unlikely due to the player having dropped off since leaving Al Ahly. Orlando Pirates will begin the defence of their Betway Premiership title at home against newly promoted Milford FC at Orlando Stadium on Saturday, 1 August (15:30). The opening fixture promises plenty of intrigue. Milford secured their return to the top flight by defeating Cape Town City in the National First Division promotion/relegation play-offs before condemning Magesi FC to relegation.
Milford FC, the newly promoted team that Orlando Pirates will face at Orlando Stadium on August 1, was formed in 2018 in the Johannesburg suburb of Milpark. The team's chairman, Mr. Sello, was a former Orlando Pirates player and assistant coach.
Orlando Pirates could sign Thabang Matuludi to strengthen their right-back position, considering the departure of Thabiso Lebitso and Bandile Shandu. Matuludi was signed by Polokwane City in 2019 and has since impressed with his defensive solidity and ability to contribute going forward.
Peter Shalulile's experience, movement, and proven goalscoring record could add another dimension to Orlando Pirates' frontline. He has won several titles with Mamelodi Sundowns, including the Caf Champions League in 2016.
Orlando Pirates could sign Percy Tau, ex-Downs star and a free agent. However, it remains unlikely due to the player having dropped off since leaving Al Ahly.
Orlando Pirates will begin the defence of their Betway Premiership title on August 1 against newly promoted Milford FC at Orlando Stadium. The match promises plenty of intrigue, with both teams looking to make a statement in their respective seasons.