Orlando Pirates are set to return from a three-week pre-season camp in Spain with key decisions looming over transfer targets and squad planning, including the pursuit of Thabang Matuludi and the futures of Boitumelo Radiopane, Oswin Appollis and former captain Tapelo Xoki.
The Buccaneers rounded off their preparations in Europe after an intensive training block that included several high-profile friendlies, from which they emerged with two victories. The performances are understood to have impressed both the technical staff and supporters, with every fixture streamed live on the club’s official YouTube channel to give fans an early glimpse of the team ahead of the new campaign.
The Spanish tour comes at a time of significant squad reshaping. Orlando Pirates have already brought in seven new signings and remain active in the market, with further incoming and outgoing moves expected before the Betway Premiership season begins.
Matuludi chase intensifies
One of the key names on Pirates’ radar is Polokwane City right-back Thabang Matuludi, who is believed to be edging closer to a move to Mayfair.
KickOff has reported that Polokwane City are currently considering offers from both Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns as they decide on the defender’s next destination.
“The boss wants a little bit of space to choose the right offer for both the player and the club.
“He has agreed to sell the player and he is expected to leave the club,” a source told the publication.
From a footballing standpoint, Pirates are seen as a potentially more attractive option for Matuludi, given the club’s clear need to reinforce at right-back. A transfer to the Soweto side could offer a more direct route to consistent first-team opportunities.
At present, Deano van Rooyen and Kamohelo Sebelebele are the primary right-sided defensive options for Pirates, although Sebelebele is also comfortable operating higher up the pitch. That tactical flexibility could open up space in the squad for Matuludi to compete immediately for a starting berth should a deal be completed.
Departures and competition for places
There have already been notable exits, with Sipho Mbule and Thabiso Lebitso among those who departed the club last month. Further outgoings are expected and it would not be a surprise if more departures are confirmed as the Buccaneers refine their squad in the coming weeks.
Boitumelo Radiopane had previously appeared to be heading for a permanent move away after featuring sparingly under Abdeslam Ouaddou last season, as the club continued its search for a leading centre-forward.
However, Radiopane’s form on the Spain tour has altered that picture significantly. His return of two goals on the trip has strengthened his case to remain with the side for the upcoming season and may even put him in contention for a starting role when the Betway Premiership gets under way next weekend.
Appollis and Xoki decisions
Oswin Appollis had been widely tipped to leave Orlando Pirates after the FIFA World Cup, with speculation mounting around his long-term future. Instead, current indications suggest he is set to stay for at least another campaign.
Appollis was granted a short break following his World Cup involvement but later linked up with the squad in Spain, effectively confirming that he will continue at Mayfair for the new season.
Tapelo Xoki, the former Buccaneers captain, has also seen his situation clarified. Despite limited game time over the past two years, the defender has agreed to extend his stay with the club, signalling that he remains part of Pirates’ plans.
As Orlando Pirates return from Spain buoyed by encouraging performances and a more settled core, the coming days are likely to bring clarity on Matuludi’s future and further shape a squad being carefully calibrated for a demanding season ahead.
