It appears a new chapter could be unfolding between Orlando Pirates and Monnapule Saleng, with the two parties expected to take a different path after months of unresolved tension. Since December 2024, Saleng has been noticeably absent from the Pirates squad — a clear indication that things haven’t been right behind the scenes.
Now, with the 2025/26 season approaching, the club seems to have made a decisive move regarding his future. Saleng, who remains one of South Africa’s most exciting attacking talents, has attracted serious interest from local rivals Kaizer Chiefs and African heavyweights Al Ahly, the most successful team in CAF Champions League history.
Despite the stand-off, sources close to the player suggest that Saleng still holds respect and loyalty for the Buccaneers. While he’s open to a transfer, he is also believed to be willing to accept whatever decision the club takes — whether it’s a sale or a surprise reintegration into the squad.
Saleng’s last appearance in a Pirates shirt came in the CAF Champions League group stage clash against Al Ahly, the very team now reportedly eyeing his signature. Since then, he’s been frozen out, with no official statement on his status from the club.
With time running out before the new season kicks off, fans are eager for clarity. Will Saleng join the Glamour Boys across Soweto? Will he link up with the African giants in Cairo? Or could there still be room for reconciliation at Mayfair?
One thing is clear — after months of silence, both the player and club are ready to move forward, even if that means going their separate ways.
