Sebola questions Orlando Pirates’ transfer business after mixed Spain pre-season

Former Orlando Pirates forward Andries Sebola believes the club still need to strengthen their squad after an unconvincing pre-season camp in Spain, despite a mixed set of results in Marbella.

Pirates have played four matches in their current pre-season tournament in Marbella, winning two, drawing one and losing one as coach Jose Riveiro tests combinations and integrates new arrivals alongside younger squad members.

Sebola, however, says the overall level of performance has not reassured him ahead of the new campaign.

“I observed their performance last night and was not impressed,” Sebola told KickOff, reflecting on the latest outing on the Spanish tour. “Perhaps they are still trying to identify the optimal team combinations, as they have recorded one loss, one draw, and two wins so far. Their final match is scheduled for tomorrow.”

Concerns over departures and defence

Sebola’s main concern centres on the quality of recent signings when measured against the players who have left Pirates in the current window.

“When comparing the recently signed players to those who have departed, I believe the players who left were of higher quality than those currently in the squad,” he said.

He highlighted the back line as a particular area of weakness following the exits of Mbekezeli Mbokazi and Olisa Ndah, arguing that the defence has not looked as secure since their departure.

“Defensive issues have arise since the departure of Mbekezeli Mbokazi and Olisa Ndah, creating a noticeable gap at the back,” Sebola added.

One of the few positives for the former striker was the display of centre-back Tapelo Xoki in Spain, with the defender having struggled with injuries in the past.

“I was pleased to see that Tapelo Xoki, despite his injury-prone history, performed well last night. I hope he remains injury-free,” Sebola said.

Call for a striker and playmaker

Sebola is particularly unconvinced by Pirates’ attacking options, insisting the club have yet to bring in the kind of centre-forward needed to compete at the highest level this season.

“At this stage, I am not fully convinced, as the team has yet to sign effective strikers. Securing Peter Shalulile could be beneficial,” he said, suggesting the Namibia international as the calibre of striker required.

He also questioned whether the midfield currently has a natural creator to dictate play in the final third.

“Additionally, in midfield, Dansin does not seem to fulfill the role of a playmaker,” he commented.

With creative responsibility already reshaped by key personnel changes, Sebola fears the loss of one of Pirates’ brightest talents will be strongly felt.

“The loss of Mofokeng poses a significant challenge for this season, unless Maswanganyi steps into the breach,” he said, pointing to the importance of Patrick Maswanganyi in helping to offset that departure.

Sebola further suggested that another player could have helped bolster the squad’s depth and quality: “Siyanda Ndlovu might have been a valuable acquisition.”

Integration still a work in progress

Beyond individual positions, Sebola warned that the process of bedding in new recruits is likely to take time, with the coaching staff still looking for fluency and cohesion.

“Integrating new players with existing members will require time,” he said, using the early performances of recent arrivals as an example of that adjustment period.

“An example is Daniel Msendami and Chabalatsane, who are yet to do well since his arrival from Marumo Gallants.”

The Marbella tournament has offered Riveiro the chance to give substantial minutes to both new signings and emerging youngsters, but Sebola’s assessment underlines the pressure on Pirates’ recruitment and tactical planning as they head into their final pre-season fixture in Spain and turn their attention to the competitive campaign.