Monnapule Saleng, once a poster boy for Orlando Pirates’ resurgence, is now at the centre of one of the most dramatic contract and transfer disputes in South African football.
The 26-year-old winger has not featured for the Buccaneers since December 2024, sparking rumours of a fractured relationship with the club’s hierarchy.
Since joining Pirates in 2021, Saleng has netted 25 goals and was honored as the Players’ Player of the Season in the 2022/23 campaign.
Despite these achievements, he earns R70,000 per month (approximately $3,800), a figure notably lower than several of his teammates.
Sources close to Saleng and his family indicate he feels underpaid and undervalued, especially when some colleagues are purportedly earning upwards of R500,000 (around $27,000) monthly.
AfricaSoccer.com can report that that the situation deteriorated after a proposed move to Egyptian giants Al Ahly allegedly fell through.
Although Pirates have denied receiving any official offer from the Middle East, Saleng’s camp believes otherwise. Disheartened, the winger reportedly boycotted training, leading to his exclusion from all matchday squads since his last appearance against Al Ahly in December.
Despite the club activating a two-year option to extend his contract, tensions have escalated. His parents, Thabo and Makie Tsoeu, have spoken publicly, revealing their son’s emotional distress and financial frustrations. Sources also suggest Saleng is battling depression as a result of the standoff.
Legal experts have weighed in, noting that while “option clauses” in contracts are legal, they often benefit the club disproportionately. Saleng’s saga has sparked a wider debate about contract fairness in South African football.
Coach Jose Riveiro has refused to comment directly but did express a desire for resolution, saying, “I just wish the best for both sides in this case.”
For now, Saleng remains contracted, training with the team but not playing. Whether he wears the black-and-white jersey again remains to be seen.
